Rickey Lee Gates

Rickey Lee Gates, 67, of Zanesville, Ohio passed away at 1:30 pm on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at his home. Rickey “Rick” was born in Dennison, Ohio on April 17, 1957, to the late John and Sandra (Taylor) Gates.

Rick was a proud Navy Veteran who served his country with honor. He was a skilled and expert welder for 44 years. He was respected for his craftsmanship and work ethic, which he hoped to pass on to his many students at the Mideast Career & Technology Center. For over a decade, Rick devoted himself to supporting youth sports, coaching and mentoring young athletes in his community. He also remained active in sports as an adult. An avid crappie fisherman, Rick cherished time spent on the water. His passion, dedication, and friendship will be missed by all who knew him.

He had three sons, two with his first wife Kimberly Gibson Gates: Rickey L. Gates Jr. and David Andrew (Lisa) Gates, and a son Kyle Bickford, all of Zanesville.

In addition to his sons, he leaves his wife Diana Gates, whom he married July 17, 1997; two stepchildren Brandon (Esther) Simmerman and Shannon (Brad) Null; two grandchildren Connor and Camryn Gates; three step-grandchildren Zayne and Isaiah Simmerman, and Kreslyn Null; a sister Beckey (Keith) Gates of Zanesville; an aunt Margaret Smith; an uncle Ted Gates; many cousins; and a nephew and special friends, Rusty Glosser, John Burley and Todd Hicks.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Dee Dee Giroux; and a nephew Joey Swope. 

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Shriver’s Hospice for their exceptional care and support, especially Courtney, Alex, Jason, Stephanie, Delaney, Lily and Kim.

A Memorial Gathering will be held at the Pleasant Grove Church Fellowship Hall, on Sunday, December 29,2024, at 1:00 PM. All arrangements have been entrusted to the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE. 

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