Leonard R. Gates

Leonard R. Gates        1930-2005 CHICOPEE- Leonard "Pinky" R. Gates, 74, a longtime Chicopee resident and formerly of Ludlow, passed away on Tuesday October 11, 2005 at the Chapin Center Nursing Home in Springfield. Pinky was born in Ludlow on November 27, 1930 the son of the late Clarence W. and Margaret (Mitchell) Gates. He attended Ludlow schools and Ludlow High School, and retired in 1995 from Hallan Construction in Springfield after many years of service. After his retirement, Pinky was employed as a custodian at the American Legion Post 438. Pinky was a member of the Laborers Local Union 999. He enjoyed hunting and ice fishing, family vacations at Salisbury Beach, Camping at Shadypines Campground in Savoy, MA, and gardening. His greatest enjoyment was just being outdoors and spending time with his grandchildren. Pinky is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Claire A. (Kaeble) Gates, his children, Geraldine D. Wayson of Chicopee, Stuart W. Gates and Donna L. Foley, both of Ipswich, MA, Maryann L. Crossman of Chicopee, Sandy C. Aldrich and her husband Bruce of Amherst, and Lori A. Gates of Chicopee, 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 1 brother, 4 sisters, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son, Wayne R. Gates in 1990, and a son-in-law, Sean Foley. A funeral home service will be held on Friday October 14th at 10:30 a.m. at the Tylunas Funeral Home, 159 Broadway, Chicopee. Burial will be private. Pinky's family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday October 13th from 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Baystate VNA & Hospice, 50 Maple Street, P.O. Box 9058, Springfield, MA 01102-9058