Michael Gates

Michael Lynn Gates, age 61, of Gilmanton, passed away at Luther Hospital surrounded by his loving children on July 6, 2023.

He was born on December 4, 1961 in St. Paul, MN to his parents Cindy and Jerry.

Mike began his early years of school in Altoona, WI before moving to Mondovi, WI and attending the Sacred Heart Catholic School through 8th grade and later earning his diploma from Mondovi High School with the class of 1980.

Following high school, he joined the Wisconsin Laborer's Union where he worked up until retirement.

Mike was united in marriage to Sheri Weiss on September 4, 1982. To that union 3 children were born (his 3 B's). They later divorced.

Mike was a true outdoorsmen who enjoyed all types of hunting, fishing, jeep rides, watching birds, riding horses, raising numerous different animals and was known to grow a nice patch of sweetcorn in the summer. Mike loved watching all the WI sports teams and tried to never miss a game.

Mike will be remembered for his great sense of humor and ability to remember and tell jokes perfectly. All who knew him will remember his witty one-liners which he continued using right up until the end. Mike was a social butterfly who loved to spend time with his children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Mike will be forever missed by his mom, Cindy Johnson; son Brandon Gates; daughters Bethany (Thomas Jr) Stai and Brittany Heitman; significant other Emma Jean and his best buddy Bo; grandchildren Ashton, Karson, Bowen, Clara and Jaidalyn; sister Missy (David) Dregney; brothers Mitch (Polly) Johnson and Monty (Chrissy) Johnson; brother-in-law Ron Hermes. He will also be dearly missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Mike is preceded in death by his father Jerry Gates; sister Meg Hermes; grandparents Ruth and Gerald Gates and Jane and Hewitt Loomis; aunts Sally Pfund and Kathy Olson; uncles Douglas Loomis and Thomas Loomis; and cousin Kimberly Davis.

A Celebration of Mike's Life will be announced and held at a later date.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.