William Joseph Gates, 80, of Longwood, Florida passed away on September 17, 2020. Mr. Gates was born on October 23, 1939 in Washington, District of Columbia. He is preceded in death by his twin brothers and one sister. Mr. Gates is survived by his loving wife Pat Gates; children Mara (Steve) McDaniel, Bill Gates, Chris (Marlena) Gates and Kerry Greco; siblings Mary Parker and Elaine Charney; 12 grandchildren as well as many loved ones and friends.
Henry A. Schmitt, Jr. and wife Robin says
Thoughts and prayers to the family for the passing of Billy. He was a good man especially to his Godfather, my Dad, Uncle Henry.
MIKE TODD says
Bill Gates-what a wonderful man. He serves his country and served his fellow man. A true Gonzaga man. His friendship was contagious, and, I feel honored that I was among his many friends. May he rest in peace!
Clarence Campbell says
RIP “Gator”!
Richard Grassy says
Our condolences to the family. He was a good classmate. Richard Grassy Gonzaga class 1957
Paul Marth says
I have fond memories of Bill as a classmate at Gonzaga. Am sorry to learn of his passing. May he RIP.
Elaine Charney says
Colonel William Joseph (Gator) Gates died. He attended Holy Comforter, St. Francis Xavier ES, Gonzales HS and Georgetown U. He was a ROTC student at GU and did his flight training at Lackland AFB in Texas. He served as a member of the SAC unit in the 60s. In the 70s he flew KC135 over Viet Nam refueling flighter bombers. He became a recruiter for the Air Force and later became the director of the ROTC program at USC. He retired from the Air Force after 30 years of service. He retired to Florida and worked as a substitute teacher for over 20 years. He was a mentor to many people. He was a big supporter of the athletic program at Gonzales HS in DC. Bill, you did good and I will miss you. RIP Elaine
Bill Madden says
One of the first classmates I met in 1A at Gonzaga in 1953. A wonderful guy. I will miss him.
Bill Moore says
Gator,
Rest In Peace my good friend and fellow St Francis Xavier, Gonzaga and Georgetown companion. You led a wonderful life and experienced the rich experiences only the military can bring.Still you left us too soon.Your buddy and fellow Southeast running mate.
Billy Moore