Brenner Ambrose Gates

Brenner Ambrose Gates, a truly loved and exceptional human, passed away unexpectedly on July 23, 2026, at the age of 18. He was born May 9, 2008, in Portland, Oregon, to Bradi (Knight) Gates and Joshua Gates.

Brenner entered the world earlier than expected, full of energy, enthusiasm, and an insatiable curiosity for how things worked. He learned by doing, using his hands, and had boundless energy to explore the world around him. He gravitated toward anything athletic, including football, soccer, lacrosse, basketball, baseball, and track & field. He excelled in sports with his natural athleticism, speed, relentless spirit, and team attitude. He went on to participate in both soccer and track into his high school years.

During high school, he attended a semester at the Oregon Youth Challenge Program, which allowed his leadership and dedication to excellence to thrive and grow. Upon his completion of that program, Brenner earned high marks and enough credits to graduate early and received his high school diploma from Sunset High School with the class of 2025. Brenner was underway in enlisting in the U.S. Air Force.

Brenner was an affectionate and loving young man and a pure soul. As he matured, he quickly became a protector, a helper, a caretaker, and a peacemaker. He was a loyal and committed son, brother, friend, and family member. Many who knew him remember his giant smile, his loud laugh, his silly antics, the twinkle in his eye, and his ever-present sense of humor. He enjoyed the outdoors, animals, gardening, and activities that allowed him to show his fearlessness and kept him active. Alongside his love for his people and animals, he had passion for all things sports. Brenner could recite facts about Oregon State Beavers football, college and pro football, or Premier League soccer that would have us shaking our heads in disbelief.

Brenner is survived by his father, Josh; mother, Bradi; older sister, Addilyn; dog, Roscoe; and cats, Poe & Kylo; along with many loving grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Kenneth Gates and Lynn Gates.

To honor Brenner, please consider donating on his behalf to one of the following causes that were near and dear to his heart: Northwest Animal Companions, Oregon Youth Challenge Program or Oregon State Football.

There will be a Celebration of Life held at Sonrise Church in Hillsboro, at 12:00 PM on Monday, August 10th followed by the Graveside Service and Interment at Skyline Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 3:00pm.