Steven E. Gates

Steven E. Gates, 68, of Longview, IL, formerly of Champaign, IL, passed away at his home at 11:47 AM on February 16, 2024.

Steve was born on March 23, 1955 the son of Orville and Dorothy (Crawford) Gates in Champaign, IL. He married Lori Francis on November 18, 1980 in Champaign, IL and she survives.

Survivors include his wife, Lori Gates of Longview, two sons, Matthew Francis Gates of Fairmount, IL and Aaron (Meredith Vaughn) Gates of Shelbyville, IN, three grandchildren, Nyx, and Ollivander Gates and Billy Mansfield as well as several nieces and nephews.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Dorothy Gates and his mother and father-in-law, Richard and Hazel Francis.

Steve was retired from the Hillman Group and later worked at Home Depot in Champaign, IL. He enjoyed spending his free time puttering in his garage, listening to music, especially Electronic Dance Music and taking care of stray animals. Steve was also an avid Model Railroader and a fan of the Illinois Central Railroad. Most of all, Steve enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on March 24, 2024 from 12:00 3:00 PM at the 4-Way Saloon and Bar in Sidell, IL.

In lieu of flowers, due to Loris "black thumb", memorials are suggested to It Takes A Village Animal Rescue in Evansville, IN, the Wayne County Humane Society or an Animal Shelter of the donors choice.

Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61834 is assisting the family with arrangements.

Please join Stevens family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .