Michael Bernard "Mike" Gates

The picture I posted is all softball players-top row L/R Myself , Mike, Jerry Tutor, Willie Hense, unknown, Romerio "Pee Wee" Mafnas, Marty Pena (rip), Jimmy Madden (Madman), Randy Hartless, bottom row L/R Joe Sotelo, Moe Hense, Eddie (Rabbit?), Dave Price, Brent Kerr. At Steve Gregorys memorial. All those players knew Mike well, some for 40 plus years. Nearly all were his teammates at one time or another. Mike your missed by many. I mean Gator.

Mike Gates was such a positive, loving man, who loved his kids more than anything. He was strong and kind and always tried to help others. Mike, may you be surrounded by love in eternity, as you surrounded others with your love here on earth. We're gonna miss you.

My condolences to the Family, kids, grandkids, everyone. Mike never met a stranger. I will always remember his enthusiasm and his laugh. We played ball together many times, mostly with The Grubbers 88-92. Yes, he played wherever needed. Hearing his car roaring into the ballpark, 5 minutes before gametime. Or his hitting style-one down the right field line/foul, one down the left field line/foul, then a base hit up the middle! Coaching our kids, watching them grow up, always good to see Gator.
If there is a VC slow pitch hall of fame, he should be in it. My Dad got a real kick out of Mike, and enjoyed ribbing him, often. You will not be forgotten, Goodbye old friend,

My deepest condolences to the family. I played softball with Gator for years in Camarillo on "Rubens Renegades", the Oxnard Merchants. He was a great ball player and an inspiration. I remember his beard he had for years. One game he showed up all shaved. Hardly recognized him. I remember his old hot rod; it was a beaut!!

May God provide comfort and healing at this time.

Matt 5:4

I was Josh's baseball coach in Somis many years ago. I remember Mike quite well. The site of Mike's hot rod zipping past the baseball field is a great memory. He was a very supportive baseball dad, and I appreciated all his support. I am sorry to hear the news. Condolences to Josh and the entire Gates family. Ed Sandell, Somis, Ca