Ruth Gates, 85, of Gower, MO passed away April 21, 2024.

She was born on September 29, 1938 to Emmett and Dorothy (White) Auxier in Gower. She was raised in Gower and graduated from Gower High School. Ruth attended Gard Business College and then worked at Mead Tablet Factory.

On August 27, 1960 she was united in marriage to Richard Gates, they made their home in Gower. After having children, she became a full-time mother and homemaker. Her husband, Richard, passed away, March 20, 2021.

She loved attending garage sales and tending to her flowers, and if you don’t think so mow one down and see. She loved gardening, her grandchildren, and visiting with friends. 

Ruth was also preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Norman Auxier.

She survived by her daughter, Ann (Dan) Wallace; son, Dean Gates; grandchildren, Dakota and Nicole Wallace and Donnie Gates; brother, Charles Auxier; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ron Gates, Jerry (Martha) Gates, Steve (Pat) Gates, and Greg (Denise) Gates; Linda (Gary) Lister, Liz (Jim) Selle, Karen (Bob) Collier, and Joanne (Steve) Golding; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. A special thanks to Cynthia, Mindy, Laurie, Taylor, Megan, and Karen and others. It was greatly appreciated.

The register book will be available from Wednesday, April 24 to Sunday, April 28th at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home in Gower.

A private celebration will be held at a later date.

Donations may be made to Mosaic Hospice.