Courtland Gates

Courtland Gates, 78, of Sterling Heights, MI, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on November 27, 2008, at St. Vincent-Mercy Medical Center, Toledo, OH. He was born in Flint, MI, on August 31, 1930, to Garner and Lela Cohoon Gates. On January 3, 1981, in Roseville, MI, he married Linda Gates and she survives. Courtland was a member of St. Thomas Lutheran Church, Sterling Heights, MI. Courtland retired from Tank Automotive Command in Warren after 35 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post #0135 and the Eagle Lodge. He enjoyed playing the keyboard and was an avid poet. He had 90, 000 miles on their motor home. He and Linda had visited all of the US states, except Hawaii, and most of Canada. Survivors include: wife, Linda Gates; daughters, Cathy Lonny Raymond, Gina Tom Boals; 6 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; 3 older sisters, Elizabeth McNeil, Joan Lemon, Garna N. Zawacki; and many loving nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at a date in late December or early January at the St. Thomas Lutheran Church, Sterling Heights, MI. Contributions in memory of Courtland may be given to the Salvation Army or to St. Thomas Lutheran Church.