James W. "Big Jim" Gates

     Mr. Gates, 69, Beaver Valley, died Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at his residence following a brief illness..  Known as “Big Jim” he was born February 11, 1937, in Beaver Valley, a son of the late Rhudell W. and Mary C. (Foster) Gates.  He was twice married first on July 28, 1958, in Altoona, to Shirley A. Gates who died April 27, 1977.  He then married June M. Troutman on March 11, 1978, in Altoona.  She survives along with 4 children: Beth A. (Dave) Foster of Philadelphia, Douglas J. (Marie Gates) of Glasgow, Sylvia L. (Donald) Dixon of Flinton and Rhudell G. at home (his girlfriend Lisa Queen).  Also surviving are 9 grandchildren, 2 greatgrandchildren, 2 brothers: Marvin S. (Patricia) of Strongsville, OH. And Gene L. (Elaine “Polly”) of Beaver Valley, 2 sisters-in-law Velma Gates of Beaver Valley and Gertrude Gates of Lebanon, and numerous nieces and nephews  He was also preceded in death by 2 infant daughters Brenda and Mary and 2 brothers George and Clarence.   He had worked for K&J Coal Co. and Putnam and Greene Contracting.  He had owned and operated J.G. Bait Shop, Beaver Coal Co. and Gates’ Grocery and was a member of Faith Tabernacle Church all in Beaver Valley.   
     Friends will be received Friday 2-4 & 6-9 pm and Saturday 10am until the 11 am services at the McQuown Funeral Home, Glasgow with Pastor Warren Yeager officiating, assisted by pastor Robert Troutman.  Interment in Beaver Valley Cemetery.

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