It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Florence Edna Gates on January 12, 2014, which occurred peacefully at Riverdale Manor in Hampton, New Brunswick, in her 83rd year. For 42 years she was the wife of the late Floyd William Gates, who died in 1998. Florence was born in Sydney, N.S., the daughter of the late James and Mary (Chant) Mackinnon and resided much of her adult life in Summerside, P.E.I.
Florence's passion in life was nursing. She began her nursing career at Glace Bay General Hospital in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, from there moving to Halifax and finally settling in Prince Edward Island, where she nursed for many years at Prince County Hospital before taking on the role as Director of Nursing at the Summerset Manor, Summerside. Florence and Floyd were active members and volunteers with Trinity United Church, Y's Men and Y's Menettes. Florence and Floyd enjoyed many summers with family and friends at the cottage on Chelton Beach.
Florence is survived by her son, Allison Gates (Barbara McLeod) of Hampton, New Brunswick; daughter, Fran Kotulak (Steve Kotulak) of Oakville, Ontario; sister, Margaret Burns (Reverend Russell Burns) of Charlottetown, P.E.I.; brothers, William Mackinnon of Elmsdale, Nova Scotia, Walter Mackinnon (Judy Burgess) of Bobcaygeon, Ontario; brother-in-law, James Gates (Sylvia) of Orleans, Ontario; along with her six grandchildren: Erin, Meg, Eric Gates and Cameron, Courtney, Christian Kotulak; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Merdena Powell; brothers, Victor Mackinnon and James Mackinnon; brother-in-law, Johnny Powell; sisters-in-law, Kaye Mackinnon, Mae Mackinnon and Mary Mackinnon.
Many thanks to the staff at Riverdale Manor for the personal and special care shown to Florence during her stay.
Reid's Funeral Home, 1063 Main Street, Hampton, N.B., (506) 832-5541, are entrusted with arrangements. In keeping with Florence's wishes there will be no visitation. A memorial service in celebration of Florence's life will be held from Moase Funeral Home, Summerside, Prince Edward Island at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Florence may be made to Trinity United Church Choir (Trinity United Church, 90 Spring Street, Summerside, P.E.I., C1N 3E4) or to a charity of the donor's choice.

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