Mr. Ralph L. Gates, 98, of The Brennity in Vero Beach, FL, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024, at home peacefully with his family at his side. Ralph was born in Worcester, MA to the late Walter O. Gates and Amy Gates.
Ralph served in World War II as a sonar operator in the US Navy, where he was stationed in the Philippines. After the war he attended and graduated from Clark University in Worcester, MA. While there he met his wife-to-be Marguerite “Peggy” Bliss (deceased in 2015) and their marriage together spanned 68 years.
Ralph was a school teacher in Wilmington, VT, and later had a long career with the General Electric Co. in Pittsfield, MA, retiring in 1985 as a Program Manager with Ordnance Systems Division.
Ralph and Peggy became seasonal residents of the Treasure Coast in 1988 coming. They first lived in Spanish Lakes Country Club Village before moving to Cambridge Park, which led them to The Brennity at Pointe West as full time residents. Ralph was a member of the Community Church in Vero Beach.
He was an avid downhill skier and was a proud member of the National Ski Patrol at several ski areas around Pittsfield, MA. After retiring he also enjoyed playing golf. Ralph and Peggy also enjoyed square and round dancing for many years.
Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Richard W. Gates and Eileen Gates of Blandford, MA and David A. Gates and Louise Gates of Surry, NH; grandchildren, Audrey Gates and Gregory Gates and his wife Alicia Gates; and great-grandchildren Desmond Gates and Theia Moon Gates. Ralph is also survived by his dear friend, Bess Ginopolous of Vero Beach.
The family will be holding a private gathering in Massachusetts to honor the life of Ralph. Memorial contributions can be made to Community Church, 1901 23rd Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960 or the National Ski Patrol.
