Sue L. Gates

Sue L. Gates, age 73, of West Bloomfield, MI and Sarasota, FL, passed away peacefully at home in her husband’s arms surrounded by her children on January 3, 2025. She was born on August 31, 1951 in Ypsilanti, Michigan; daughter of Roy and Matilda (Saner) Schultz. Sue’s presence was like a bright light in every room she entered. Her infectious positive energy lifted those around her, inspiring countless moments of fun and laughter. She believed deeply in people, encouraging them to embrace life, take risks, and find joy in every experience. Whether organizing gatherings or leading sing-alongs, Sue was always at the heart of things, ensuring that those around her were having a great time.

Sue grew up on a farm in Plymouth, MI, where she and her sisters learned the value of hard work. Whether milking cows, driving tractors, or collecting chicken eggs, Sue approached every task with enthusiasm and diligence. Even amidst the hard work, Sue found joy—running, playing, dancing, and singing with the freedom that farm life offered. She also happily took on the role of the family’s designated “kitty holder,” a fitting job for someone whose warmth and gentleness drew others—both people and animals—close. These early years shaped her into a woman who believed in always doing her best and enjoying life to the fullest.

Sue was a proud graduate of Plymouth High School's Class of 1969. She pursued higher education at Eastern Michigan University, where she earned an associate degree in business. Later in life, she furthered her education and completed a bachelor's degree in marketing from Baker College. Sue was united in marriage to Gary L. Gates on June 2, 1973; they spent 51 years lovingly devoted to one another as husband and wife.

Sue had a successful career in administrative and marketing and spent several years with Ross Roy Advertising. She later transitioned to Howard & Howard Attorneys, where she served as Director of Marketing until her retirement.

She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her community, and she was an active member of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in West Bloomfield for many years, sharing her time and talents generously. Her love of music was central to her identity; she sang in the choir, served once as choir director, performed featured solos during Sunday services, and sang duets with the pastor. Sue also played the piano, further enriching the church’s musical life. Beyond music, she participated in the Women’s Group, volunteered for various church activities, and was a beautiful addition to the church and Florida community fashion shows.

Music was at the heart of Sue's life, a constant thread that defined her as a person. She was always singing, humming, or whistling around the house, and her talents as a pianist and vocalist brought joy to those around her. Sue loved sharing her musical gifts, whether in church or the active adult community where she lived during the winter in Florida. She delighted in participating in her Florida community’s annual shows, learning new songs that matched the year's theme and stunning her audience with her performance.  Sue and her husband brought holiday cheer to their community by leading a beloved sing-along at the clubhouse each year. Beyond her classical and choral talents, many were surprised to learn that Sue also played bass guitar in a classic rock cover band called Rewind. However, Sue’s most cherished performance was a deeply personal one, singing to her new husband at their wedding.

Sue’s creativity went beyond music; she was a gifted artist with a passion for painting and drawing. She also explored other mediums, including the art of stained glass and her creativity extended to the vibrant flower gardens that surrounded her home. Sue was a passionate world traveler whose adventures took her across the globe, from Australia and New Zealand to Asia, the Mediterranean, Alaska, much of Europe, and the United Kingdom. Her adventurous spirit was second only to her fierce competitive drive. Whether playing tennis, pickleball, or golf, Sue approached every league and tournament with skill and a desire to win.  She also enjoyed outdoor activities like bike riding, boating, and waterskiing.  Sue’s love of competition extended to card games like euchre, Over the Hill, and gin, as well as board games of all kinds. To keep her mind sharp, she challenged herself by completing crosswords, tackling word searches, and playing “Words with Friends.”

To unwind Sue often enjoyed a glass of wine with her husband and treasured the moments spent with her close friends who dubbed themselves the “Eightsome.” Above all, her greatest joy came from being with her family as she organized the Schultz and Gates reunions, and she especially cherished the time spent with her grandchildren. Sue’s life was one of unwavering optimism, love, and inspiration. She taught those around her to see the good in life, to celebrate every moment, and to never stop moving forward. Her legacy of love, warmth, and joy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Sue is survived by her loving husband, Gary Gates; her children, Nicole Gates and Brian (Carey) Gates; her grandchildren, Jack, Alexandra, Walker, and Chloe; her sisters, Ileen Davis, Amy Woodring, and Lou Ann Schultz.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial Visitation will be held Friday, January 10, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.  A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with a time of gathering beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, 4800 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Holy Spirit Lutheran Church , 4800 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48323.