Charles W Gates

Charles W. "Charlie" Gates, 90, of Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026, in Danville, Pennsylvania.

Born on October 27, 1935, Charlie was the son of the late Martin Clair and Mary (Breon) Gates. He graduated from Bellefonte High School and Stevens Trade School and proudly served his country in the United States Army, having been drafted twice.

A machinist by trade, Charlie began his career at Tem-Pres Research, a division of The Carborundum Company, in State College, before working at Sutton and HRB. In 1975, he joined Tempress LECO as a machinist and later advanced to plant manager. He retired in 2009 after 34 years of dedicated service.

In 1962, Charlie married the love of his life, Shirley Lou Rider, who survives him. Together, they shared 64 years of marriage, building a life centered around love, family, and devotion to one another.

Charlie was the proud father of three sons, Wesley, Christopher, and Eric Gates. He was also a loving grandfather to Ashley, Kyle, Morgan, Mackenzie, Nick, Tara, Jacob, and Zachary, and a great grandfather to six great grandchildren. His family was his greatest joy, and he treasured the time spent with them.

An avid outdoorsman, Charlie enjoyed hunting of all kinds, especially bird and deer hunting. He was also a devoted Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved watching baseball and cheering on his favorite teams.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Martin Clair and Mary Gates, and his 15 brothers and sisters.

Above all, Charlie was a devoted husband and family man. While he enjoyed his work, hunting, and sports, nothing meant more to him than Shirley and the family they built together. His love, the memories he created, and the time shared with those closest to him will forever be treasured.

Friends and family will be received on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 11am to 12 noon, at the Barbara Daughenbaugh Funeral Home in Centre Hall. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 12 noon at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Pleasant Gap Little League, PO Box 517, Bellefonte, PA 16823.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Barbara Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc of Centre Hall. To share memories and condolences online, please visit daughenbaughs.com.