Paul E. Gates, age 82, passed away Monday, January 17, 2022, at his home near Rockford.

He was born September 7, 1939, in Logan County, a son of the late Wilbert & Sadie (Hays) Gates. Paul married Connie Secrest on April 18, 1964.

She survives, along with their son and daughter, Susan Gates of Ohio City and Frank (Kim) Gates of Mendon, grandson Mason, and a sister and brother, Lois Gates and Gary Gates, both of Sidney.

Preceding him in death were seven sisters and four brothers.

Paul worked as a tree trimmer for Dayton Power & Light, then 35 years at Mersman Furniture in Celina, retiring when the plant closed in 1995. A favorite hobby was vegetable gardening. He enjoyed spending time in the garden after work.

Private Graveside Services were held for the immediate family at Mercer Cemetery in Mercer, with Pastor George Rowell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Memorial Donations be directed to the Alzheimer's/Dementia Association or to the Mercer County or Van Wert County Humane Society.

Condolences can be expressed to the Gates family at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com. Arrangements were under the direction of W.H. Dick & Sons - Hellwarth Funeral Home, Celina.