Rick L. Gates, age 70, of Norman, Oklahoma passed away from COVID-19 on Monday, December 21, 2020. Rick was born November 9, 1950 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma to Lloyd L. and Opal June Gates. He grew up in Pauls Valley and attended Moore High School.
After school, Rick joined the United States Army and toured Korea from 1970 – 1971. After returning from duty, he started work doing various trades, starting work in the oil field, then becoming a park ranger at Lake Thunderbird, working as a wood trim contractor, and then becoming the District Manager with Central Oklahoma Master Conservancy District until his retirement in 2007.
Rick married the love of his life, Sharon G. (Lassiter) Gates on December 30, 1972, the couple settled in Norman, Oklahoma and had two sons and a daughter together.
Rick was an ornery man with a great sense of humor. He loved all animals, he enjoyed raising pigeons: homing pigeons, rolling pigeons, and chickens. He enjoyed old movies and westerns. He was an avid gardener and he dabbled in blacksmithing and woodworking.
Rick is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his spouse, Sharon G. Gates; son Jeff Gates (Karrie Gates); daughter Stacy Butts (Mike Butts); and son Erick Gates (Rachael Gates); his grandchildren Jacob, Gracie, Reese, Matthew, Hailee, Ricky Bryce, J.D., Emmalee and Elijah; his 5 sisters, and 2 brothers; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was very loved and will be missed by everyone who knew him.
A visitation for Rick will be held Sunday, December 27, 2020 from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Service, 1109 North Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071. A graveside service will occur Monday, December 28, 2020 at Blackburn Cemetery, please meet at Primrose Funeral Service at 11:00 AM on Monday to go in procession to the cemetery.
