JOHN KENNETH GATES

(July 10, 1940 – December 8, 2025) It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Kenneth Gates. John was born on July 10, 1940, in Geraldton, Ontario, and moved to Toronto in 1961 to continue his teaching career in Scarborough. He later attended York University, where he met his wife, Barbara, with whom he shared many wonderful years until her sudden passing twelve years ago. John enjoyed a long career in education and was an early advocate for cultural diversity long before it was common practice. He had a keen intellect and a remarkable ability to understand how things worked. He could fix almost anything, build almost anything, and figure out almost any system placed in front of him. An avid reader and skilled solver of cryptic crosswords, John also enjoyed golf, curling and time at the family cottage - one of his greatest pleasures. He was a man of character and integrity, teaching his children and grandchildren that your word is your contract. His parting words as they left home for university were simple and enduring: work hard and behave honourably. Those who knew John best will remember his strong opinions and his determined stubbornness - traits we teased him about and will miss more than we expected. John is survived by his children, Andrea Gates (Mark Heazle) and Michael Gates (Anna Patterson); and his grandchildren, Gregory, Jonathan, Laura, and Cameron. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; his parents, Kenneth and Donalda Gates; and his sisters, Barbara and Kathryn Hardy. He will be missed by nieces, nephews, and many friends, including JoAnne Peach, a dear friend in his later years. A private celebration of John's life will be held at a later date in accordance with his wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in his memory.