James (Jim)

Kenneth Gates

James (Jim) Kenneth Gates passed away Saturday January 25, 2025 at the age of 85. Jim was married to his college sweetheart Carrie Lu Hehenberger Gates for 63 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter Anne Marie Gates Edwards, son John Kenneth Gates daughter-in-law Nicole Nielsen Gates, and grandchildren Dalton Mitchel Edwards, Cooper Kenneth Gates, Logan Erik Gates.  Jim was born in Harrisburg, Illinois to Alvin and Dora Gates; and is proceeded in death by his brothers Alvin Kenneth Gates Jr, and David Lee Gates.  He will be lovingly remembered by his brother Richard Alvin Gates.

Jim did many things in his life.  He started the journey as an aerospace engineer working on the first lunar module and retired as Vice President of Advanced Programs at Boeing.  Regardless of where he lived, he was an active member of his local and church communities.  He supported a number of philanthropic organizations such as Agape, Turning Point, Warren County Higher Education Project, Warrenton Rotary and his college alma mater Rose Hulman Institute of Technology.  He was a teacher of Scripture, Astronomy, and Mathematics.  Admidst all this, Jim always made time to fish, golf, and adventure.

Jim both lived and loved openly, fearlessly, and relentlessly. He never missed an opportunity to express his love for friends, family, and the world around him. His philosophy was when it comes to the phrase 'I love you,' say it the moment the thought pops into your mind. So now we take this opportunity to say, we love you Jim. Godspeed.

A Celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Faith Christian Family Church from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM. A Celebration Service will begin at 1:00 PM with Pastor Terry Roberts officiating. Burial will follow at Lippstadt Cemetery in Warrenton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to be given to Faith Christian Family Church. Online condolences may also be made at www.martinfuneral.net