Noel D Gates

Noel D. Gates Noel passed on June 1, 2013, peacefully in her sleep. Noel was born September 15, 1928 in New Orleans, Louisiana, daughter of John Drouilhet and Olga Doussan. During high school, a 1946 article ran in the Sacred Heart Courier that spoke of Noel's determination and drive. Her reputation for leadership earned the respect and friendship of every girl in the school. She was an honor roll student and captain of the senior volleyball & basketball teams, among many other claims to fame. After graduating, Noel attended nursing school in New Orleans. Motivated by the desire to serve Christ in the suffering members of His mystical body, "Nurse Nellie" sacrificed her summer vacation to work at Charity Hospital. To continue her nursing profession she enlisted in the Navy utilizing her kind disposition and compassion for others. While in the Navy she met the love of her life, Robert Gates. She ended her Navy career with an honorable discharge. Noel and Robert moved to Washington where they raised their family of eight children. She continued her nursing career at Panorama nursing home. In her free time, Noel enjoyed recreational outdoor activities such as horseback riding and skiing. Noel was a true servant of God. For many years she was a very active member in the Catholic Community attending St. Michael's Church in Olympia. Preceding her in death were her parents, husband, two brothers, sister, and son David. Noel is survived by her loving family, sisters Muriel Soileau, Lynn Drumm; son's Robert, Richard, James, Patrick, and Mark. Noel also has two daughters Joan and Megan along with many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.