John Eugene Gates passed away peacefully at home with his beloved dogs, on Sunday, June 9th, 2019. He was born to John and Eleanor (Meredith) Gates on February 24, 1940. During his free time, John loved to work on cars, spend time with family and visitors, sit with his four dogs...Cookie Monster, Tippy Toes, Festus and Snoopy (Snoop Dog); as well as watch westerns, golf and the Detroit Tigers on television. John is survived by his children John (Lori) Gates, Jill (Sean) DeGrove, Jerome Gates and Shawn Longstreet; his brothers and sisters, Sharon (Stu) VanDyke, Roger (Ruthann) Gates, Shirley Yoder, Judy Owings, and Rick Gates. He is also survived by his granddaughters, grandson, great-granddaughters, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his older brother Jerome (Jerry) during childhood and his parents. We would like to thank Spectrum Hospice doctors, nurses and social workers and John's sister, Judy, for making his final wishes of passing at home with his dogs a reality. It was greatly appreciated. No formal services are planned, but family will honor him and the life he lived by spreading his ashes privately at a later time. Those wishing to offer expressions of sympathy are encouraged to make a donation to Spectrum Health Hospice at 750 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 and/or the Humane Society of West Michigan at 3077 Wilson Dr. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534.