Jim Gates

Jim Gates passed away on Friday, September 27, 2024.

He is predeceased by his parents Richard and Liz Gates and brother Rick.

He is survived by his wife Margaret; daughters: Meghan Atilano (Eric Ian Atilano), Becky Gates (Eric Hilfer); grandson Kaiden Hilfer; sisters: Betty Doxey, Pearly Gates; niece Angela Crosby and her family; cousin David Gates and his daughters He is also survived by many other cousins, nieces and nephews and friends too numerous to count.

Jim was born in Cleveland, OH on April 17, 1945, and moved to Albuquerque when he was two years old with his parents Dick and Liz.

He attended St. Charles Borromeo Elementary School, Wilson Junior High, Highland High School and NMSU. While at HHS he was a member of the 1963 State Champion Football Team.

Jim coached baseball, football and wrestling while teaching PE for Albuquerque Public Schools at Hayes Junior High and Valley High School.

In 1976 he married his wife, Margaret. They raised 2 daughters, Meghan and Becky.

Jim was always up for a good time. He loved his friends and was always ready to help them anywhere, at anytime with anything. He loved road trips and going to Coach’s Clinics. His friendships spanned from elementary school through retirement. His ready smile and willingness to be a part of the fun was apparent whether it was at a party or hard work.

He was a generous and caring landlord to his tenants at rental properties.

Jim was and always will be the heart of his family. His wife, girls, grandson and Eric 1 & 2 will cherish all of the wonderful memories he leaves with them. His laughter, kindness and love have been monumental in building his legacy.

Please join us to celebrate the life of a good, hard working, humble, funny and loving husband, father, grandfather, coach and friend. Jim wanted everyone to honor him by sharing funny stories and memories of him.

Jim’s life celebration will begin with a rosary to be recited on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church located at 811 Guaymas Pl. NE. (Lomas & Tennessee). Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m.  A Reception will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St NW, 87102. We hope you will join us there to share stories of Jim.

In lieu of flowers we request donations be made to Assumption/Holy Ghost St. Vincent de Paul. Mail to: Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 811 Guaymas PL NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108.