Karen D. Gates

Karen D. Gates

September 12, 1952 – March 19, 2024

Karen Diane Gates (Davis), age 71, passed away peacefully at home on March 19, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 12, 1952, to Loyd C. and Iona (Gregory) Davis in Hamilton, Ohio.

She was a 1970 graduate of Ida High School who then went on to study at Western Michigan University. Karen was a proud employee of DTE Energy - Monroe Power Plant for 36 years as a maintenance coordinator before retiring in 2014. There, she made many memories as well as lifelog friendships.

Karen married the love of her life, Edward Gates, on August 5, 1977, and together shared one wonderful son, Loyd. They enjoyed Sunday car rides, traveling up north and camping with family and friends.

She was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church of Monroe, Michigan. She enjoyed attending Sunday services, helping with Vacation Bible School, decorating the sanctuary for Christmas, and visiting with some of her closest friends.

After retirement, Karen enjoyed knitting blankets for family and friends, spending time with her loved ones, and most importantly, watching her grandsons grow up. She loved watching them play sports year-round, no matter the weather conditions.

Her smile, spirit, caring nature, and generosity will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Left to cherish her memory is her husband, Edward; son, Loyd (Sarah) Gates; 5 grandsons, Corben, Caden, Kylar, Dylan, and Rykar; brothers, George (Daniela) Davis and Charles Davis; in-laws, Janet (Gene) Mullins and Judy (Gerard) Verhille; her beloved dogs, Molly and Baylor; a host of nieces and nephews; and many cherished friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; father and mother-in-law, Edward and Emily Gates; and sister-in-law, Peggy Davis.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at Rupp Funeral Home from 2pm to 7pm. A funeral service will take place on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 11am at Rupp Funeral Home. Pastor Katie Waggoner will officiate. Burial will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park, LaSalle.

Online condolences may be sent to www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com