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John Wooten Gates, age 96, beloved husband of Arlene Nelson; dad of Mary (Clayton), grandpa of Cole and Kate McLaughlin, uncle Bo of John and Charles. John was born and raised in the Knoxville,TN area and served in the Navy during WWII. John moved to Chicago in 1956, where he met his wife Arlene. For over 50 years, John worked in the insurance industry, the majority of time working in California. John loved his family, watching trains and was an avid reader. John was the true definition of a gentleman every day of his life. John was preceded in death by his brother, Samuel Turner and by his sister Frances. Donations should be made to Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter, 2050 Claire Court Glenview, IL 60025.
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My Uncle Bo was truly one of a kind. His visits to us when we were little was always a treat. I remember once when he volunteered to deliver papers with us on our paper route. Sure enough, when Mike and I got up at 4a.m. there was Uncle Bo sitting in a chair, over coat on, waiting to go with us. He was a man of his word & I am grateful to have had him in my life & to share the same name as him. Uncle Bo will always be in my heart.
John Gates
October 2, 2013
I loved Uncle Bo. He really influenced my life in a positive way.When I was stationed in the Marine Corps in the desert in California,Bo found me by calling the Base. They located me and said you have a phone call down at the Administration office.I ran down there and found out it was Uncle Bo."Why don't you come up here for Thanksgiving?"So I spent Thanksgiving with him and his family instead of spending Thanksgiving alone on base.There were many other times in my life when Uncle Bo helped me out or gave me advice that stayed with me all my life.He was one of my favorite people from childhood till today!
Michael Gates
October 2, 2013
I met John when he was with the California Insurance Guaranty Association. He had a background in claims administration and used his extensive knowledge to assure that people with claims against insolvent insurers were treated fairly. He worked especially well with his counterparts in other states to prevent deserving injured parties from falling between the cracks of the state insurance system.
He loved to pass on what he knew to those of us who needed his help; we learned so much from his knowledge and patient explanations. He touched all who knew him and the world is definitely a better place for his having passed through it.
Phillip Schwartz
October 1, 2013
John's genteel manner and kind demeanor will be missed by all. Arlene, my prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family.
Blake Obata
October 1, 2013
I was sorry to learn of John's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Deb Wozniak
October 1, 2013
Dale and I are so sorry to learn of John's passing. Our hearts are so sad. God be with you.
Judi and Dale Stephenson
October 1, 2013
So sorry to here of Uncle Bo's passing. He'll be greatly missed!! You'all are in our prayers. Love, Keith & family
Keith Gates
September 30, 2013
It is obvious that God wanted him on this earth as long as he could, so everyone would understand what the meaning of servant is. A fine gentleman who treated everyone with dignity and respect. I am better for knowing him. Marvin Kelly Austin Texas
September 30, 2013
May God comfort you. (1 Peter 5:6,7)
September 30, 2013
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