David Lee Gates, 82, of Ernul, N.C. peacefully passed away on December 31, 2020 at his residence, surrounded by his family.
David was born on March 2, 1938 in Atwater, Ill. to the parents of Earnest and Alice (Stead) Gates.
David graduated from Springfield High School. After graduation, David joined the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served our country for 20 years and retired as Master Sergeant E8.
On August 17, 1962 David married Shirley Martin in Beaufort, S.C. After retirement, David enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing. He also enjoyed flipping houses.
Those left to cherish David's memories are his spouse, Shirley, daughter Karen (John) Gudgel of Nilwood, Ill., daughter Kathy Henry of New Bern, N.C., and son Kenny Gates of Grantsboro, N.C.. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Andrea (Scott) Grundy of Ernul, N.C., Alicia (William) Plaza of Farmersville, Ill., and Eric Gudgel of Carlinville, Ill. David has five great-grandchildren: Bryce, Garrett, and Olivia Grundy, and Charlotte and Layla Plaza. He also has one surviving sister, Ellen (John) Pulverenti of Merritt, Fla.
Preceding him in death are his parents, five sisters, three brothers, and several nieces and nephews.
Private family services will be held at Camp Butler in Springfield, Ill. at a later date.
