William Gates

William Allen Gates, a proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away on December 4, 2021 peacefully in his sleep.

The Son of Raymond and Selma Gates, William grew up in Marysville California. He was born on March 10,1946 in Yuba City, California, where he attended Marysville Union High School.

At the age of 19, William enlisted in the United States Army. He valued this service highly and attained the rank of E-5 before his separation. As part of this service, William attended basic training at Ft. ORD California, upon completion William PCSed to Ft. Rucker Alabama for Specialist Training in becoming a helicopter mechanic. After specialized training, William then PCSed to his first active duty station of Ft. Hood Texas. William was then called to duty on the 8th day of February in1968, where he would fulfill his remaining term in Vietnam before returning home to his wife and children.

William is survived by his daughter Cheryl Lynn Kneitz and his two sons Jeffery Lyn Gates, and Raymond Franklin Gates. He will be remembered for his selfless acts of love and compassion for family, and those closest to him. As well as for his talents and passions for crocheting cooking and the ability to always keep any type of fish, plant, tree or floral alive. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, great grandchilren and passing on his talents so his legacy could live on. William had many qualities; however, he will be remembered most importantly for the love he gave so freely to everyone around him and how easily he touched the lives of each individual that crossed his path.

A service honoring the life of William, will be held December 15, 2021, Located at Steed Todd Funeral Home: 800 E Mañana Blvd, Clovis New Mexico.