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Jim Gates Obituary
Jim Gates passed away on Friday, September 27, 2024.
He is predeceased by his parents Richard and Liz Gates and brother Rick.
He is survived by his wife Margaret; daughters: Meghan Atilano (Eric Ian Atilano), Becky Gates (Eric Hilfer); grandson Kaiden Hilfer; sisters: Betty Doxey, Pearly Gates; niece Angela Crosby and her family; cousin David Gates and his daughters He is also survived by many other cousins, nieces and nephews and friends too numerous to count.
Jim was born in Cleveland, OH on April 17, 1945.
Jim coached baseball, football and wrestling while teaching PE for Albuquerque Public Schools at Hayes Junior High and Valley High School.
In 1976 he married Margaret. Jim was always up for a good time. He loved his friends and was always ready to help them anywhere, at any time with anything. He loved road trips and going to Coach's Clinics.
Jim was and always will be the heart of his family. His laughter, kindness and love have been monumental in building his legacy.
Rosary will be recited on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church. Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. A Reception will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Salazar Mortuary.
To view Jim's online guestbook please visit www.salazarfunerals.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jim Gates
Art Hernandez
June 6, 2025
I was very sorry to hear of coach Gates passing. I was a student at Hayes jr High. He was my football coach. Coach Gates took us to a city championship. Coach Gates was not only a great coach but he had a great personality and he care about all of us . Thank you coach. I love you very much. Art Hernandez 9th grade 1973.
Charlie Lujan
December 28, 2024
My brother Eugene and Jim played sports together at Highland High.Jim was a very nice guy.He always had a smile.Your friend Charlie.
James G Zanios
October 3, 2024
You will never see a smile like the one Jim Gates had! It was so good to re connect with Jim after many years. Bless you my friend. Jim Zanios
Arnold B Cordova
October 3, 2024
My condolences to Jim Gates' family and friends. I worked with Jim at Valley HS and will always remember his smile and wonderful personality to all people at VHS.
Peggy and Trucker Cunningham
October 1, 2024
We'll always treasure our "adult slumber parties" in Red River and Ruidoso. Jim was always the life of the party and couldn't wait to play Left Center Right and, of course, poker. Such good times, so many laughs. Our love to Margaret and the girls.
Stacy (Tula) Haley
October 1, 2024
I lived across the street from Jim for over 20 years. I remember how funny he was. Our families were very close and spent many weekends at each other´s house enjoying the good times we had. Rest in peace Jim. Good bless your family and Betty and Patty. Love Tula Haley
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