Howard F. Gates

Howard F. Gates, age 81, a lifelong resident of Sabina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Bethesda North Hospital.

Howard’s lasting legacy leaves behind his beloved wife of more than six decades, Judy (Reiley) Gates.  They were joined in matrimony on September 26, 1963, and their devotion to each other was unwavering.

Born on July 13, 1942, in Wilmington, he was the son of the late Edward and Helen (Browning) Gates.  Raised on a farm just outside of Sabina, he acquired life lessons that were evident to all that knew him:  the importance of a strong work ethic, the value of integrity, adept problem-solving and mechanical skills that allowed him to fix most anything, and a deep sense of duty, both to his family and his country.

Howard proudly served in the United States Army and fought in Vietnam as part of the 27th Combat Engineer Battalion.  Returning home, he worked at Frigidaire in Moraine before owning and operating an Amoco Service Station in Sabina for many years.  After closing the gas station, he worked at Sabina Farmers Exchange and at East Clinton Schools.  He also served for several years on the East Clinton Local School Board.

In addition to his wife, Howard is survived by their sons: Robert (Allison) Gates of Sabina, Steven (Christie) Gates of Morrow, and Keith (Jaime) Gates of Kettering.  Also left to cherish his memory are grandchildren: Nikolas, Benjamin, Isaac, Leigha, Gabrielle, Jacqueline, William, and Jonathan.

While Howard had many interests, he was happiest when spending time with family.  Whether it was meeting his sons for breakfast on most Saturday mornings, getting interested in a new hobby to be with his sons, or going to family gatherings for birthdays and holidays, he was always looking forward to spending time together.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Nelson Gates.

The family will receive friends at Littleton Funeral Home, Sabina, on Monday, February 5, 2024, from 11am – 1pm, when a funeral service will begin.  Burial to follow at Sabina Cemetery.