BOMBER MEMORIAL

WESLEY ALAN "WES" GATES ~ Class of 1968
October 27, 1949 - Decenber 11, 2013

~



Wesley Alan Gates, 64, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, December 11, 2013, in Jerome, ID after suffering an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Wes was the second of four children born to Ruth and Floyd Gates. He grew up in Richland, graduating from Columbia High School in 1968. He went on to college in Pullman where he met his future bride, Kelly Callen. They married in 1970 and a year later their beloved son, Kacey, joined the family. After graduation from WSU in 1972, Wes began his career teaching high school civics, but after a few years, he had an opportunity to own and operate his own small publishing business, contributing to the publication of a 200th anniversary of the Lewis & Clark trail historical book. His creative talents continued to emerge and eventually he formed his own graphic design business. His art found its way to design of snowboards and all sorts of recreational and athletic clothing and equipment. He worked for Hallmark Cards, Inc. for the last five years.

Wes found his love for baseball at an early age. He continued to play whenever the opportunity arose whether in organized leagues or with friends at the neighborhood park. His dream to attend the US Air Force Academy, and eventually play professional baseball, were cut short by a car accident in his senior year of high school that severely damaged his right arm. However, the love of the game stayed with him until his passing. He only recently stopped playing in community recreation leagues.

Wes is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, in-laws, Bert and Edith Callen, and brothers-in-law, Gary Callen, Calvin Callen and John Allaway.

Wes leaves behind his wife, Kelly, son Kacey, grandson, Kallen, siblings Linnea Gates Williams ('66), Tim ('70) (Darla), and Kristina Gates Allaway ('75), close friend and cousin Patty Dorrand, and several nieces and nephews.

At Wes' request, there will be no services. His wish was to be remembered for his life and his love of all things beautiful.

Published in the Tri-City Herald on January 12, 2014.

Guest Book online till 2/11/14.