Randy Gates

Randy Gates, age 78, beloved husband of 55 years to Sharon (Amrich) Gates, died unexpectedly after a short illness Wednesday, January 11, 2023.

He was born in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Elmer and Olga Gates.  He is also survived by his loving children: Tom Gates, wife Tracey (Karhoff), Shelly (Gates) Long, husband Brian, and Becky (Gates)Trejbal with husband Dan.  Cherished grandfather to Jacob and Gabrielle Gates, Ashley and Jessica Long, and Zachary and Gavin Trejbal.

Randy grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and attended Rhodes High School.  He graduated from Kent State with a Bachelor’s in Education and earned his Administration degree from Cleveland State.  Randy was a dedicated teacher, coach, and administrator for more than 30 years in the Parma and Brecksville-Broadview Heights school systems.

He enjoyed golfing, woodworking, home remodeling projects, vacations to Myrtle Beach and the occasional shenanigans with “ The Boys”.  Most of all, he loved his family and the time spent with them.  “Gator” was the life of the party.  He was always the first on the dance floor.  You never knew when his contagious happy feet and infectious laugh would take over.  It was impossible to resist and not join in.  His fun-loving spirit and love of life endured through the last few years while facing Alzheimer’s.

Family will receive friends at the Mallchok Funeral Home, 5660 Ridge Road, Parma, OH on Thursday, January 19, 2023 from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 p.m. Prayer Services Friday, January 20, 2023 at the funeral home at 10:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Matthias the Apostle Catholic Church, 1200 West Sprague Road, Parma, OH 44134 at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

A live stream of the Funeral Mass will be available at the following link: https://youtu.be/N_-MxR1ixKk

A Celebration of Randy's life will be held at the Brew Garden at 16555 Southpark Center, Strongsville, OH 44136 from 1 - 4 p.m. following the interment.

Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.  www.alz.org

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