Willard E. "Willie" Gates

Willard "Willie" E. Gates, 70, of Canton, Ohio passed away peacefully, with his former spouse at his side on March 3, 2024. He was born on August 4, 1953, in Canton, Ohio to the late Elmer and Maxine Gates.
In addition to his parents, Willie was also preceded in death by his sister, Joyce Cowgar.
Willie is survived by his siblings, Glen (Dorothy) Gates, Linda (Guy) Reed, and Jeff Gates; former spouse, Diane Gates; and best friends, Ray and Brenda Timberlake.
Willie was a very fun loving and caring man, who's passion was baseball and golf. He started out as a boy, playing in the Mighty Mites and went on to play at Perry High School where they were federal champions. He was known as "Will on the hill" to his teammates. After that he went on to play Class A ball for the Golden Circle Lodge. He retired from Timken in 2009, having worked 37 and a half years. He and his former wife had a house in Florida, which he enjoyed very much. Willie had many friends near and far, all whom he held close to his heart.
Family would like to thank his best friends, Ray and Brenda, Jill Miller of Compassion Delivered Inc., and Dr. Louis Shaheen for their kindness and compassion.
Private services were held.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Compassion Delivered Inc. at 1320 Bel Air Dr. NW North Canton, Ohio 44702.