Frederick N. Gates
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Frederick N. Gates, 97, of Downingtown, PA, passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024, in West Chester, PA. He was the husband of Elsie McGinnis Gates for over 70 years. Born in Red Lion, PA, he was the son of the late Charles and Elizabeth Knisely Gates.
Fred moved to Coatesville in 1939 and graduated from Scott High School in 1947. He then served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. After he was discharged from service he earned an Associates Degree and worked as a traffic technician for PennDOT until he retired in 1989.
Fred was very active in scouting and music. He served as Scoutmaster for Coatesville Troop 38 and for Downingtown Troop 2. He was Lodge Chief of Order of The Arrow in 1951 and 1952, and earned the O.A. Vigil Honor in 1956. He also served as treasurer for Troop 51.
He was a member of Lukens Band since 1944 and sang with a group called The Meadowlarks.
Fred was active in the fire police for Alert Fire Company for over 57 years until 2010. He also bowled in two leagues at The Bowling Palace in Downingtown.
He was a member of the Downingtown United Methodist Church and served as sexton since 2001.
Besides his wife he is survived by a grandchild, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Stephen Gates, and brothers, Robert and Bill Gates.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. from the Downingtown United Methodist Church, 751 East Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, PA, with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Chester County Council Boy Scouts of America. To make that donation please click HERE.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Wilde Funeral Home, Parkesburg, PA. Online condolences can be posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com
Condolences
Freddie was one of a kind, and will be missed.
I'm so sorry to hear of Freddie 's passing. I always enjoyed our chats when we would run into each other and the laughs we shared. My thoughts and prayers are with Elsie and the rest of the family at this very sad time.
Fred Loved Scouting
I didn't know Fred well, but Fred would always come down to Camp Horseshoe for alumni reunions and OA events, even in his advancing years. His service as Lodge Chief in the 1950s and well beyond was instrumental in us maintaining a strong lodge. When Fred came down to camp, he would always share stories about what things were like "back in the day", and it was great to see someone share their love for Scouting and the Order of the Arrow so generously.
My Deepest Condolences
My sincere condolences and prayers for Fred’s family and friends. I remember Fred from when I was a child. My Dad, Fred and a couple of their friends would get together to play cards at our house. I last saw Fred when we met him at his favorite restaurant, The Cracker Barrel. I am so sorry for your loss.
Rest in peace.
RIP Comrade Fred. A comrade in The American Legion Post 475 and the Chester County Council Boy Scouts of America. You certainly did your part in your 97 years.
My sincere condolences go out
My sincere condolences go out to the family. Fred was a wonderful man. He came in the Giant where I work and was so pleasant. We had some good conversations 😌 I will miss seeing your smiling face Fred. My heart goes out to the family. Rest in Peace my friend and as always, Thank you for your service 🙏 ❤️
He will be miss always talk I
He will be miss always talk I am a cashier @ giant where he did his shop always got one of the motor carts I always said to him you got a new buggy 😆 always thank him for his service everyone will miss him from giant just wanted 2 say to his family we are in your prayers again sorry for the lost from Kelly & Reid