Carl W. Gates

Carl W. Gates obituary, Sterling, IL

Carl W. Gates

Carl Gates Obituary

Published by McDonald Funeral Home, Inc. - Rock Falls on Feb. 29, 2020.
STERLING – Carl W. Gates age 86, died Saturday, February 29, 2020 at CGH Medical Center in Sterling. Carl was born on August 16, 1933 in Meridosia the son of Warren R. and Anna V. (Carlock) Gates. He married Nancy Kunde on April 29, 1955 in Oak Park. Carl earned his B.A. at the University of Illinois, his M.A. at the University of Missouri and Doctorate from Northern Illinois University. He was employed as a Professor of Economics and Business at Sauk Valley Community College for 26 years retiring in 2000. Carl was also employed with the University of Illinois and RB&W in Rock Falls as their Director of Personnel. He served his country as a pilot in the United States Air Force. Survivors include his wife Nancy of Sterling; three sons, Craig (Christine) Gates of Spokane, Wash., Gordon (Kristine) Gates of Springfield and Douglas (Helena) Gates of San Jose, Calif.; eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Anna Marie Gates; one brother, Earl Raymond Gates. A gathering of family and friends will be from 5:00-7:00 PM on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 at the McDonald Funeral Home in Sterling. At Carl's request his remains will be donated to medical science. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to Sterling Public Library. Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Carl Gates's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 10, 2020

Janice Butler posted to the memorial.

March 7, 2020

Jim Barber posted to the memorial.

March 4, 2020

Beverly Ohda Julien posted to the memorial.

Janice Butler

March 10, 2020

I do not know Carl; I know the name Gordon Gates from my working career but am trying to work through the fog to place him. However, I feel compelled to remark about the eloquence of Carl's obituary and the story it tells of a life of simplicity yet remarkably productive and all-consuming. We can't all live this kind of life, but it certainly is one to emulate and strive for. My condolences to his family on this loss, and my admiration for the writer of the obituary.

Jim Barber

March 7, 2020

So sorry to learn about Carl's passing. We spent so many happy hours at Sauk, on Fishing trips (I'll never forget Alaska), and working together on projects. Great times with Carl and Nancy both in Illinois and Michigan. We'll all miss you, Buddy.

Beverly Ohda Julien

March 4, 2020

I am so sorry to hear of Carl passing. For several years we were both in the Business Department at Sauk and office neighbors. He was a truly fine man and a great asset to the college. I will always remember him for his droll sense of humor and sensible advice. His was truly a life well lived.

connie foster

March 4, 2020

Nancy so sorry to hear of Carl's passing.

Neal Justis

March 4, 2020

Hello Nancy, Sorry to hear about Carl today. I will always remember him at the bike time trials. He always had a smile on his face, He just alwaysseemed to be smiling, anytime I saw him. He had a smile that just made you feel happy. Hope you are well, and my condolences to you and your family. Neal and Jan Justis

Beth Johnson

March 3, 2020

I met Carl at The Duis Center where I work at the front desk. I had the pleasure of scanning him in for the pool. We didn't know each other long but he always made me smile. We would tease each other alot. My sympathies go out to Nancy and the family. He will truly be missed by The Duis Center staff!!

Rodney Brooks

March 3, 2020

i came to know Carl as a young man just starting in the banking business. He was always so kind and caring and took his own time to nurture an inexperienced young man. Over the years he gave me many snippets of good advice. His quick wit and wonderful smile made it a joy to be around him. When ever we met i always enjoyed his company and left him always hoping to meet him again soon. He was a wonderful man and a great credit to this community beyond Sauk. I will miss him at Wendy's.

Don/Peggy Burton

March 3, 2020

A joy to have taught with Carl in the business division at Sauk Valley College and
to be a friend of his for many years. Our condolences reach out to his family and
friends.

Dr. Richard L. L. Behrendt Behrendt

March 3, 2020

As President of Sauk Valley Community College, I always respected Carl's classroom expertise and knew our students were in good hands with him. Outside the classroom, Carl was always supportive of my leadership, yet never fearful of challenging me. In short, I respected Carl and was pleased to work with him for 14 years and I extend my sympathy and best wishes to Nancy and his family.

Jewelene Pratt

March 2, 2020

Nancy & Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Carl was a great individual and will be missed by many. Treasure your memories together.
Love & Prayers, Julie

BETTY HALGREN

March 2, 2020

I worked with Carl at Sauk Valley College for 27 years. His office was right out our back door so I saw him everyday. He was always fun to be around and always had a quick wit. After retirement, my husband and I loved to run into him at Wendy's at lunch time. He became a regular there for a long time. He was an excellent teacher and had a lot of good advice.So sorry to hear of his passing, but I know he was not in the best of health. Our sympathy goes out to Nancy and his three sons.
So sorry I can't make the memorial service since I am flying to Florida on Wednesday.
Betty Halgren

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results

McDonald Funeral Home, Inc. - Rock Falls

1002 12th Avenue, Rock Falls, IL 61071

Make a Donation
in Carl Gates's name

How to support Carl's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Carl Gates's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Carl Gates's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 10, 2020

Janice Butler posted to the memorial.

March 7, 2020

Jim Barber posted to the memorial.

March 4, 2020

Beverly Ohda Julien posted to the memorial.