Obituary of James Robert Gates

James Robert Gates September 19, 1922 ~ March 30, 2015 James Gates was born in Rainier, Oregon to James R. Gates and Mary Agnes Wade. He grew up in the area on the family farm and graduated from eight grade before going to work in the woods with his father, and later, his brothers. World War II found James and his brothers off to battle. James was on the second wave to cross Normandy Beach as a medic and then commenced a long walk to Austria while never setting foot in a vehicle. After the war, James married Esther Lorraine Kroeger and proceeded to bless the world with 9 wonderful children; Tammy, Mariellen, Loralie, James, Martha, Jon,Terialee, Lael and Martin. During a second marriage he raised two more sons; Ric and Bob. He spent most of his life raising children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and had a wonderful time doing it. He was first and foremost a farmer a simple laborer and father and grandpa to all who knew him. He left behind a countless number of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and great great great grandchildren as well as his Brother, Frank of Sweet Home, Oregon. A Public Interment Service with Military Honors will be held at Willamette National Cemetery on Friday, April 17th at 12:30 p.m.