In memory of

Richard "Ricky" Sarton Gates

Dec 13, 1961
Apr 9, 2021

Obituary

Richard Sarton Gates passed away on Friday April 9th, 2021 in peace surrounded by a loving community

Richard was born on December 13, 1961 to George W Gates III and Joan Samsel (Gates) and was welcomed by his 2 sisters Frances and Suzanne.  He was followed a few years later by a younger brother George W Gates IV.  He grew up in the Portland area and spent his early years attending the Emily School.  He moved to his first home in his late teens and worked for a closed workshop for a time.  He moved into his last home run by the Albertina Kerr Foundation, Appaloosa House around 2005.  He is survived by his 2 roommates Michael and Kevin.  He went on many adventures with the Foundation.  He loved his community inclusion rides every day and he spent time at the beach, the zoo, bowling and many other adventures. 

Richard, also affectionally known by his family as “Ricky” loved train rides from the time he took his first trip to Montana to see his grandparents.  Ricky had an unending joy for life.  His sweet energetic personality touched everyone around him.

Our family would like to express our deepest appreciation to the Albertina Staff, former and current, who have tirelessly taken such good care of our brother, and son.  You are his family too and we want to honor the relationship that you had with him.

Without you being there and providing the level of care you have over the years we do not know what we would have done. 

Richard was preceded in death by both sets of Grandparents, Joe and Laura (Morigeau) Matte and Jane and G. Walter Gates II, and step father G. Kirk Samsel, and uncle Wayne Joseph Matte.  He is survived by both Parents Joan Samsel and George Gates III, sisters; Frances Gates, and Suzanne Gates, and brother George Gates IV (Jenny Stenseth); nieces Audrey and Vivian Gates, Nicole Samsel (Jimmy Klapper), and Grand Niece Polly and many aunts and cousins. 

In lieu of any flowers we request donations be made to the Albertina Kerr Foundation in Richards name at the albertinakerr.org  

Service Information

Viewing & Celebration of Life
Friday April 16th at 1pm
Johnson Funeral Home
134 Missouri Ave S. Salem Oregon.
Funeral Service
Thursday April 22, 2021 10:30 AM
St. Ignatius Mission Parrish
300 Beartrack Ave, St Ignatius, MT 59865
~Burial Immediately Following~

Messages of Sympathy

  1. Anonymous says:

    First time I met you also, it was my first day official day. Where I got to interact with you.
    I remember your where getting a shave and there was some shaving cream close to your mouth, so I grabbed a small towel and wiped it off. Your eyes light up and you just smiled at me. . My heart sunk. After helping assist you to get dressed. We started to go into the living room, and you gave me a hug... . I was told you have never given a hug to someone before....
    I didn't choose to leave you guy's. I pray hard that your last years you spent having fun. Enjoying life, smiling, and laughing, and all your birthdays you spent out and celebrated your birthdays, on your birthday. You get one day a year that's your day .

  2. Sarah Pequeno says:

    I didnt even know you left this world until today, and I didnt even know its was you who passed until I tried to look at up, because all of your are apart of my family too.... July 24, now 25th 2021... My mind as at a loss .. Two times now I missed saying goodbye... Both times not a choosing... You where fun too talk to; to read too; to play with, and go on walks. I loved to watch you laugh, and smile. The outings we had the zoo trip , and your birthday. You and I spent together back in 2018 dutch bros and red robin the one in woodburn of course. I appricate you. Not only did I help you. You helped me too, you made my days going into "work" not even work for me... I will miss you always Ride on, and fly high. ...

  3. Frances says:

    My precious little brother, Richard. I miss your smiles and laughter. You have been a sweet brother on earth. I look forward to seeing you in heaven.

  4. Anonymous says:

    My sweet little brother, Richard. I will miss your smiles and laughter. What a precious brother you have been on earth. I look forward seeing you in heaven. Frances

  5. Julia Sparks says:

    I was lucky to meet Richard in his younger years and know what a wonderful, sweet and kind person he was. My deepest sympathy to his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  6. Vickee Siemers says:

    Richard had an enormous amount of love for his family and friends. I wish his loved ones peace and comfort in his passing. He will be dearly missed. Sending prayers of strength and hugs to all.

  7. Ed & Diane Simmons says:

    Our love and sympathy to all the family.

  8. Anonymous says:

    My brother. We had so much fun planning birthday parties with you and playing with you. I will miss you so much. You have taken a piece of me but I have you always in my heart. Love SuZanne

  9. Patte says:

    My heart goes out to all of you. Sending you much love.

  10. Staff of Johnson Funeral Home says:

    What an honor to serve someone like Richard. Thank you for your trust.

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