In April, The San Diego Ski Council lost one its long term members, a member of North Island Snowdrifters Ski Club, at the age of 87.   He skied until he was 84 years of age taking his last run on Stump Alley on March 23rd, 2023 on a family trip.. To quote Gates:

I've had a great time on many slopes around the world: Japan, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, France, Germany, Canada, various US Western & New England slopes. Even got to ski FREE!! at Mammoth & several European locales.

Skiing isn't w/o it's dangers, & I felt I was a danger to others as well as myself

He certainly had a well lived life! We enjoyed making turns with you Gates.

His military service will be on Friday, May 22 at 1:30pm at Miramar National Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and should plan on being in the funeral procession line by 1:10pm to the location of his service which is expected to last 30 minutes.

Following the service, Elizabeth Berg, his daughter,has arranged for some of his ashes to be spread at sea. The boat/yacht is scheduled to depart at 4pm for a 2.5 hour sail into international waters where his ashes will be scattered to the ringing of the bell, and where we will celebrate his life recalling/sharing stories about Gates. The yacht’s name is “Romancing of the Wind” which sails out of Harbor Island. If you want to join Elizabeth in this portion of the service, please contact her at (619)398-7704. The yacht’s capacity is limited - (30 people).