Obituary of William Franklin Gates

William Franklin Gates of Albion, New York, passed away on February 4, 2019 after a long battle with cancer.  A lifelong Albion resident, he was predeceased by his parents, June (Maibaum) and Franklin, as well as his sister, Donna (Davis).

He is survived by his wife Leslie and daughters, Jessica and Leah, his best buddy Charlie, brothers, David and Ed, sisters-in-law, Donna Mae (Albanese) and Laurel Voight, and nephews, Charles, John Franklin, David and so many very dear friends.

A talented tradesman, Bill held many jobs in his life, but the one that gave him the most pleasure was his own business, Gates Plumbing, where many of his customers turned into lifelong friends.  He loved to fish and hunt and anything to do with guns.  He could make anyone laugh.  We will miss his beautiful smile and sense of humor.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Thursday, February 7th from 7:00-9:00pm. A graveside service for Bill will be held Friday at 11:00am at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Donations can be made in his name to the Albion Sportsmen’s Club, 3449 Keitel Rd. Albion, NY 14411 or PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion, NY 14411. 

Do not stand at my grave and weep;

I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on Ripened grain,

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush,

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there, I did not die.

-By Mary Frye