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Robert Mitchell Gates

Born In: Middleton, Nova Scotia, Canada

Passed in: Digby, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed on: January 21st, 2011

Robert Mitchell Gates, 74, of Digby, gently slipped away from us in Digby General Hospital on Jan. 21, 2011, with loving family by his side. Born in Middleton, he was the oldest of three children of Frank and Louise (Vincent) Gates. Bob began his early employment in Ontario where he worked for the town of Richmond Hill as a supervisor for the water works department until the call of home brought him back to Digby. His early endeavours here included chinchilla farming and commercial potato farming and for several years he was employed at the Conway Co-op. He started a small saw sharpening business at home, Bob's Saw Shop, which eventually, with his natural dedication and perseverance, became Gates Power Equipment Ltd. Specializing in small engine sales and service, expansion and growth demanded moving to several locations over the years. During the early development of his business he also found time and energy to drive the school bus twice a day. Bob brought to all his work a natural unwavering concern for his customers and he focused on exemplary service and support. He thoroughly enjoyed his wide cross-section of customers and the casual conversations and humourous stories they would bring to the shop, and over his many years in business he succeeded in building not only his business but also an enormous circle of steadfast, lifelong friends. Bob possessed and encouraged compassion, tolerance and gentleness of all living things. As an avid nature lover, he enjoyed simple pleasures and deeply appreciated the intrinsic value of living close to nature. A special joy for him was to take his ATV through his woodlot and come home with tales of the wildlife he might have encountered or to bring back an abandoned bees' nest on a twig. His jaunts through the woods, his New Holland tractor, his enduring love of his family, home and friends brought him great peace and fulfillment. Bob always felt that he had been blessed beyond measure and he found deep satisfaction in any opportunity to help his neighbours and friends. Bob was instrumental in helping start the Digby County ATV Club and remained a member and loyal supporter until his passing. He was a member of Hill Grove United Baptist Church and looked forward each week to the fellowship and inspiration he would receive with the church family and community friends. To the very end, Bob maintained his wry wit and keen sense of humour. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sandy; son, Jim (Nora); sister, Gloria (Barry); and sister-in-law, Linda. He was predeceased by his brother, Wayne and his first wife, Bev. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Serenity Lindsay Funeral Home. His service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Victorian Order of Nurses, Hope for Wildlife Society or a charity of your choice.
It is not length of life...but depth of life.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

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