Winnie Gates

"If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart. I'll stay there forever."

On March 21, Gale returned home. She will be missed fiercely. But it comforts us to know she is now reunited with her parents, sister, and the many pets she cared for and loved throughout her life.

She passed peacefully while reading in bed, one of her favorite pastimes. She took great pleasure in her garden, her flowers, and all the birds who visited her feeders daily. But her biggest joy came from her grandchildren, they were her sun, moon, and stars.

She was preceded in death by her sister Mozelle, her parents Levi and Neva Evans. She is survived by her husband Wilfred Gates, daughters Mandora (Brett) Gourdie Traverse City, and Kathy (Mike) Grindstaff Carmel IN, son Billy (Patty) Gates Gaylord, Stephen and Chris Saunders, her beloved nephews, grandchildren Wilby and Mathew Gates, Levi Gourdie, Jacob and Hannah Grindstaff, Madison Cesaro, Skyler and Taylor Schnieder. "Granny" you are forever in our hearts.

We will honor and celebrate Gale's life Saturday, April 2nd, at the Mortensen funeral home in Mancelona, MI. Service will be at 11am, with visitation at 10am. Luncheon to follow the service at the Alba Sportsman Club. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to AC Paws.