Donald (Don) Ralph Gates born February 25, 1942 in Chapman Twp, Ontario passed away peacefully at home January 2, 2016 at the young age of 73 with his loving wife Vivian and his faithful companions Mandy and Callie by his side.
Don was born the 5th child of Sam and Margaret Gates.
He is predeceased by his parents; sisters May and Myrtle and brothers Ray and Bud.
He leaves to mourn his wife Vivian of 40 years; son Joe; daughter Lauralee; stepsons Reg, Larry, Byron and Alan; stepdaughter Julie; eleven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; sisters Phyllis and Joyce; brother Alf and many nieces and nephews.
In 1975 Don met and fell in love with Vivian in Dawson Creek, BC and shortly there after moved to Quesnel. Don started and ran D.R. Welding with the help of Vivian in 1981 until his retirement in 2006. Don was very handy and had a knack for fixing or making anything that was asked of him but where he really excelled was his woodworking skills. He won an Honorable Mention in 2000 at the Touch Wood Forum for his Miniature Trucks. After his retirement he found a love for working in his gardens and grew the most beautiful flowers.
Don was a true friend, loving husband, father and grandfather. Rest in Peace our loving Donald–you will be missed dearly.
A special thank you to Dr. Scheppers and Home care workers Carol, Brenda and Jody for making Don’s last days more comfortable. No service by request but a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.