Walter Gates, Jr.

Walter C. Gates Jr. of Ithaca, NY died peacefully on December 2, 2018. His wife of 52 years, Lorna J. Gates, was by his side as he took his last breath. Walter was 80 years old.

Born October 23, 1938 to Walter Collins Gates & Grace Lenore Wilcox, Walter was the oldest of the three sons. After graduating Sea Cliff High School in Long Island, NY, Walter attended Cornell University where he earned his BS in chemical engineering. He then attended the University of Michigan where he earned his PhD in chemical engineering and met Lorna. The two were married February 12, 1966 in Auburn, MA.

Walter spent his entire career at the Texaco Research Facility in Beacon, NY, and is listed on multiple US patents. After decades of work, Walter & Lorna retired to Ithaca, NY. While in Ithaca, Walter continued playing ice hockey, enjoying nature and volunteering with several local museum & science organizations. He was a fan of live theater, opera, and classical music.

Walter’s family asks that you remember him by donating to your favorite charity. Walter is survived by his wife, Lorna and two sons, Gary J. & Glenn A. who will all miss him greatly.