Richard “Magoo” Gates of Turtle Creek, PA, age 68, passed away Wednesday, July 6 after suffering a massive stroke. He was born on May 17, 1954, son of the late Alfred and Rose (Willits) Gates.

Rich is survived by his daughter Jennifer (Joseph) of Erie, sons Rick (Michele) and Scott (Amy) of Pittsburgh; grandchildren Raiden and Daniel Kubiak and August “Sadie,” Tristan, Teagan, Duncan and Diem Gates; many brothers and sisters (of the famous Gates 18) and in-laws; several cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Audrey (Carmack), in-laws Bill and Mary Miller, sisters Carol Onsrud, Georgia Thompson and Sharon Beck and countless other loved ones.

Everyone who knew Rich felt his big heart and giving nature. He will be missed especially by his seven grandchildren, with whom he spent countless hours swing- and stroller-pushing, chasing, playing cards and tennis, swimming and numerous other activities. He was a huge fan of all Pittsburgh sports - especially the Steelers. He was also a huge fan of the Gates family reunions, a time he was grateful to connect with his brothers and sisters and their families. No Gates event passed without multiple card games breaking out - cribbage, hearts - the list goes on and on. Rich was also an avid, talented pool player. He loved spending time at Pinky's Pool Hall in Turtle Creek and considered it his second home.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Electric Heights Housing Association Hilltop Hall, 78 Harper Drive, Turtle Creek on Monday, July 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. We will have a short memorial service, time for sharing your stories of Rich, and fellowship after.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to his memorial fund via PayPal (gatesrichard31@gmail.com) or Venmo (@Richard-Gates-26, #2412). 

The family would like to thank the ER, Cardiac ICU and Hospice teams at AHN Forbes Hospital for their compassionate care during Rich’s short stay.  They'd also like to thank all of our family and friends for their support and prayers, specifically Aunt Nellie, Aunt Winnie, Aunt Dorothy, Aunt Elaine, Aunt Dorothy, Aunt Mary, Uncle Billy and Uncle Butch, who spent time with Dad prior to his passing and made him feel very loved.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/richard-gates-sr/obituary/

Copy