It is with deep sadness we announce that Ronald Irving Gates passed away at the age of 86, on July 3rd at the Foyer Notre-Dame de Lourdes.

Ron was born in Sydney, NS and was adopted at the age of 2. His biological sister, Jennie never stopped looking for him and finally after finding another brother was able to locate Ron in Bathurst Dec. 6, 1978. A family reunited.

Ron is survived by his loving, and devoted wife, Rita May, to whom he was married for 52 wonderful years. He is also survived by his brother, John (Jay) T. Brown (wife Sandee, niece Wendi Lea, Nephew Ian) of Glastonbury, Ct. USA; his brother-in-law, Stan MacPhail, (Calgary, AB, formerly of Sydney, NS), nieces Deborah and Lynda, and many grand nephews and nieces.

His sister, Jennie MacPhail predeceased him in February 2020 and his biological mother, Alice Brown, in the late 1970’s.

Ron was a hard worker, and was employed at Brunswick Mine as Warehouse Supervisor from 1975-1986. In Sept. 1987 he opened Rainbow Dry Cleaners, which he operated until October 2015. He loved being his own boss. He enjoyed playing shuffleboard and curling and loved all the worldwide travel he did with his wife.

There will be no funeral service. A “Celebration of Life” for friends will be held at a later date.

His wife, Rita May, sincerely thanks the nurses, care givers and staff at the Foyer Notre Dame de Lourdes, especially for their care and support during the last 11 days when Ron was in palliative care.

Donations could be made to Parkinsons Foundation, Foyer Notre Dame de Lourdes, Charlie’s Cat Rescue or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton's Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst.