PIERRE, SD – Gene was born on August 19, 1934, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the eldest of twelve children of Jesse Allen Gates (1906–1982) and Naomi June (Field) Gates (1915–1967). At the time of his birth, his father was a professional boxer. The family soon relocated to Pierre, South Dakota, settling on the Gates homestead at the bottom of Harrison Street.

From a young age, Gene exhibited a strong work ethic. He worked for the railroad, helping to construct and repair bridges, and contributed to the cleanup efforts following the devastating Pierre/Fort Pierre flood of 1952. In 1953, Gene enlisted in the United States Army and later joined the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He served 18 months in Korea as airborne parachutist and rigger, delivering supplies to troops on the ground. For his service, he was awarded the Parachutist Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and the “Forgotten War” patch. He remained a proud lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion, the United Order of Oddfellows, and the Knights of Columbus. On October 25, 1957, Gene married the love of his life, Rita Marie VanOverschelde (1935–2011), whom he met while she was in nursing school at St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre. They began their life together farming near Letcher, South Dakota, close to Rita’s family farm. During this time, they welcomed three children: Bernadette Ann (1959), David Allen (1960), and Jess Joseph (1961).

In 1963, the family moved to Pierre, where Gene purchased five acres of land two miles north of town from Charley Hyde for $2,000. He relocated a surplus building from the Oahe Dam construction site to the property and converted it into a family home. They lived there until 1980, when Gene completed construction on a new home. During these years, four more children were born: Collette Patrice (1964), Lunette Marie (1966–2000), Paulette Rose (1968), and Anngette Kaye (1973). Gene built a respected career as a master craftsman and builder. He worked with several construction firms—including Pierre Development, Hemminger Construction, Brutger Construction, and Specker Enterprises—before founding his own company, Gene Gates Construction. His craftsmanship lives on in countless homes and buildings throughout the Pierre area.

Gene is survived by his children Bernadette Fishburne (JR) Elizabeth City, NC, David Gates, Rapid City, SD, Jess Gates (Becky) Broken Arrow, OK, Collette Elliott (Kim) Cheyenne, WY, Paulette Gates, Alton, MO, Anngette Niederbaumer (Mike) Chancellor, SD along with his brothers Joe (Peggy), Andy, Victor, and Daniel (Mary), and his sisters Naomi and Kathy. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Noah Lee, Clayton Lee, Destiny Corkle, Casey Nath, Jake Stadel, Elizabeth Gates, Margaret Gates, Owen Niederbaumer, and Olivia Niederbaumer; and great-grandchild Theo Nath. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rita, daughter Lunette, granddaughter Hillary Lee, grandson Jordan Scull, brothers Allen, Jerry, Francis, and John, and sister Theresa.

Gene enjoyed time with family and friends, companionship of family pets, and connecting with his faith every day. Gene will be remembered for his steadfast faith, integrity, skills, and unwavering love for his family and community that will live on in all who knew him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Parkwood and Mary House for the compassionate care Gene received.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice.

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