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1923 Earl 2007

Earl W. Gates

January 29, 1923 — October 18, 2007

Earl W. Gates, 84, lifelong resident of the Gallatin Valley, passed away peacefully, on October 18, 2007. Earl was born to the late Harry O. and Helen Gates on January 29, 1923. He was one of 6 brothers and 1 sister, who as a young boy quit school and worked on the Joe McReynolds Ranch, the Flying D Ranch, and the old 2-4-D Ranch, breaking horses and moving cattle. As he got older, he learned to fish and hunt from an old Native friend, who lived on the Gallatin River. He ran an 80 mile trapline, using a Harley Davidson motorcycle to check his traps, all across the county. When he was older he started working for the US Forrest Service, doing back country surveying on horseback, then worked for many years running heavy equipment for the forestry service, doing much of the road and park campsite work. Earl is survived by his son George Gates of Bozeman, daughter, Mary Jean (Paul) Wegner, of Idaho, and one brother Percy Gates. As well as 5 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his parents, his wife Marie and brothers, Jerry, George, Harry and Jack, and one sister, Marie. There will be a private family service, at a later date.

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