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Bob Gates, 75, a longtime resident of Albuquerque, was killed in a car accident on Tuesday, July 26, 2005. He was known for his love of life and love of people, his jokes, and all sports with fishing having a special place in his heart. Gates is survived by his special friend, Pat Barry; son, David Gates and wife, Roberta of Albuquerque; daughter, Debbie Jameson of Twenty-nine Palms, CA; three grandchildren, Heather, Ashley, and RyAnn; his sister, Adele Gattas of Albuquerque; sister-in law, Elizabeth Gates; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Richard Gates; and brother-in-law, Ned Gattas. His parents were Lebanese immigrants and he cherished his Lebanese background. Gates lived in Albuquerque for 59 years and throughout his gregarious life, he "never met a stranger." Therefore he is much beloved by many friends and family who will deeply miss his joyful spirit. Gates worked for the original Ned's El Portal, owned and operated the Sidewinder Bar in Los Lunas, worked and retired from selling insurance for Prudential and most recently owned Gates, Inc. He loved New Mexico and spent his life traveling all of its back roads. Gates could provide a travelodge, rating the best watering holes and fishing spots throughout the state. He truly appreciated all of the people he met and the places that he visited. Gates was a loud, burly, fun loving "diamond in the rough" that always gave more than he took. He was forever young and generous of spirit and loved to play practical jokes. Gates was a storyteller extraordinaire. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Ghost Church, 833 Arizona SE on Saturday, July 30, 2005, 9:00 a.m. with Father Thomas Mayefske, Celebrant. After the Mass friends may gather at David's house to celebrate and remember Gates' life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gates' name to the American Cancer Association. French Mortuary 10500 Lomas Blvd., NE 275-3500
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