Alvin Gates

The Legendary Alvin Gates, 74, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away on February 10, 2026.

Born on May 9, 1951, on the South Side of Chicago, Al lived a life defined by creativity, passion, and community. He was a photographer and tango instructor, but above all, he was a pioneer, entrepreneur, mentor, and friend.

Al began his photography journey at the age of five with a box camera gifted to him by a family friend, also by the name of Alvin. By the age of seven, he was photographing members of his church, developing black-and-white images, and selling them to parishioners—an early sign of his talent and entrepreneurial spirit.

Later in life, Al discovered ballroom dancing. His path changed when he was introduced to Argentine tango by a dancer from the 720 Club in downtown Chicago. Though initially reluctant, he quickly fell in love with the music and dance. Within five years, he devoted himself fully to tango, becoming a driving force in bringing Argentine tango to Chicago and cultivating a warm, welcoming, and inclusive dance community.

Al is not survived by immediate family, but he leaves behind a devoted circle of friends who became his chosen family, including Khoi Dang Vu, Vivienne Culp, Jack Johnson, Terry Kirk, Karen Ma, and Elizabeth-Anne Stewart, who are assisting with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Al's honor via GoFundMe:
https://www.gofundme.com/manage/honoring-alvin-gates-tango-mentor-friend

A celebration of life will be held:

Saturday, April 18, 2026
Celebration of life 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Celebration of dance 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Bring your dance shoes
St. James on Wabash
2912 S. Wabash Ave.
Chicago, IL 60616

Parking is available via the entrance on 29th Street.

Al's legacy lives on in the Chicago dance community and in the countless lives he touched through his art, mentorship, and unwavering spirit.