Roger Gates

August 27, 1938 - August 9, 2018

Roger Lee Gates, 79, of Monrovia, passed away on Thursday, August 9, 2018, while surrounded by his loving family and friends, in St. Francis Hospital South Campus, Indianapolis. He was born on August 27, 1938, in Indianapolis, to the late Cecil and Irene Ruth (Reinken) Gates. Roger graduated from Monrovia High School in 1956. Immediately enlisting in the United States Navy, he acquired several handy construction traits serving as a Sea-Bee. Roger was united in marriage with Gloria (Shores) Gates on March 24, 1968; to whom he was blessed to share in raising a daughter, Christina and 50 years of companionship. A little man with a large heart, he was a relentless volunteer; always jumping at the opportunity to help others and assisting with the construction of several Kingdom Halls around the state. In addition to raising livestock, farming and assisting with auctions at Ted Everett Farm Equipment, he specialized in mechanics and servicing heavy equipment. A selfless, hardworking, loyal and highly skilled handyman, Roger dedicated 44 years of faithful employment before retiring at Seastroms Inc. Known to frequently stir-the-pot, his presence was never overlooked. Possessing the quickest of wits, he had a unique smile and outstanding level of selfless commitment Like an open book, Roger was a friendly, pay-it-forward and straight-shooting jokester. A Member of the Mooresville congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 50 years, he was baptized in the 60’s and had been studying God’s word and actively sharing his knowledge of the Bible with others. Mr. Gates was a cherished country neighbor to many within the close-knit community and his presence will be sorely missed by all who were blessed to know him. Survivors include his loving wife, Gloria Gates of Monrovia; daughter, Christina Johnson (husband, Derek) of Monrovia; siblings, Nita Allen (husband, Dale) of Texas and Aaron Gates (wife, Sandy) of Thorntown, along with a beloved canine companion named Sadie. Friends and family may visit from 1 to 4p.m., on Saturday, August 18, 2018, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 131 Robb Hill Rd., Martinsville. A Memorial Service will immediately follow and begin at 4pm. Funeral & Cremation Arrangements were entrusted to Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia and services will be conducted by Elder Michael Brown. The funeral home will provide envelopes for memorial contribution to help the family offset funeral expenses and will deliver any flowers to the Kingdom Hall for services. Condolences, memories, photos and sympathy gifts may be shared with the Gates family online at www.lightmemorial.com.