Tuesday, April 28, 2015
My deepest sympathies go out to all of the Gates children and grandchildren and Michele's siblings, but especially to my dearest friend Beth. I have the fondest and happiest memories of times spent with your mom and the whole gang. Her Margaret St home was a second home to me, the door always open and a hug to walk into. She saw me as an awkward teenager, held me when I had a fight with a boyfriend, shared in my joy through my pregnancies, gave me advice and strength when getting a divorce and offered me sympathy with the passing of both my parents. She was "Grandma Gates" to my 3 girls, and treated them as such. I remember the fun times we shared at camp, around her and Beth's kitchen tables, out on the deck, enjoying a glass of wine and smoking cigarettes sharing many laughs or deep discussions. Her smile and her laugh have a special place in my heart, so warming and familiar. Through all her hurdles in life she dealt with them like a champion, unflappable, just moving on and letting life take it's course. Always there for her family and friends. She truly was an angel on earth and will make an extra special one to watch over all her loved ones. Such an inspirational woman, graceful and gracious, fun-loving and full of life. A wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother and a mother to those she didn't give birth to but took under her wings. Our loss is Heaven's gain! Thank you, Beth, for giving me the honor of having your mom in my life. I loved her dearly.
