William Franklin Gates

William Franklin Gates, of Albion, passed away on Feb. 4, 2019 after a long battle with cancer. A lifelong Albion resident, he was predeceased by his parents, June (Maibaum) and Franklin; as well as his sister, Donna (Davis).

He is survived by his wife, Leslie; his daughters, Jessica and Leah; his best buddy, Charlie; brothers, David and Ed; sisters-in-law, Donna Mae (Albanese) and Laurel Voight; and nephews, Charles, John Franklin and David; and many very dear friends.

A talented tradesman, Bill held many jobs in his life, but the one that gave him the most pleasure was his own business, Gates Plumbing, where many of his customers turned into lifelong friends. He loved to fish and hunt, and anything to do with guns. He could make anyone laugh. We will miss his beautiful smile and sense of humor.

The family will receive friends at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., 21 West Ave., Albion NY 14411, on Thu., Feb. 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. A graveside service for Bill will be held on Fri., Feb. 8 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Donations may be made in his name to Albion Sportsmen’s Club, 3449 Keitel Road, Albion NY 14411; or to PAWS Animal Shelter, 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Bill, please visit www.christophermitchell.com.

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on Ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there, I did not die.

-By Mary Frye