Darrel W. Gates

Darrel W. Gates, 89, of Trenton, Florida and formerly of Strasburg and Canton, Ohio passed away Thursday, April 6, 2017 following an automobile accident.

He was born July 6, 1927 to the late Priscilla (Brown) Ault and Charm Gates in Beallsville, Ohio.

He was a U.S. Army veteran and member of the VFW in Chiefland, Florida. He was also a member of the Pine Grove Baptist Church in Trenton and the Chiefland Golf Course. He retired from Union Metal in Canton after 48 years of service. He was the former owner/operator of Gates Welding Company and the Speedway Inn Tavern in Navarre. He was an avid golfer and fisherman.

In addition to his parents, Darrel was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mildred “Tootie” Gates on June 13, 2009 along with three sisters and one brother.

He is survived by his children, Bonnie (Rich Lus) Harper of Massillon, Kathy Wilson of Canal Fulton, Ron (Linda) Gates of Rosedale, California, Dennis Richards New Philadelphia, Valerie (Dave) Eberly of Beach City, and Theresa Malone and her companion Stan Neading of Canton along with 14 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren; a brother, Raymond Gates of Canton and a sister, Beulah Wolfe of Cuyahoga Falls and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A service celebrating Darrel’s life will be held Tuesday, April 18, 2017 beginning at 11am in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at Dover with Dr. Philip Greenaway officiating. Interment will be in the Dover Burial Park where the Dover VFW will conduct military honors. A reception will follow in the Open Bible Christian Center in Richville, Ohio. Friends may call at the funeral home on Monday from 6-8pm. Those unable to attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of Darrel can sign the online guestbook by visiting the “obituaries” link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Stark County Humane Society, 5100 Peach St., Louisville, Ohio 44641