Pamela A. Gates

Pam was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 27, 1945, to Albert and Elizabeth "Betty" Olivero. She graduated from Center High School in 1963. In 1968, she met the love of her life, George A. Gates, DVM, and they enjoyed a marvelous marriage, raising "three fine boys," Mike, John, and Jimmy.

While George practiced veterinary medicine for many years at Prairie Village Animal Hospital, Pam was at home being the most nurturing and loving mother to her boys. She was known to keep a well-stocked candy drawer, which always made the home a destination for the boys' friends and ensured that Pam would be able to keep a watchful eye on her boys. She supported and encouraged the boys in their musical, academic, and athletic pursuits, never missing an event. She later attended her grandchildren's programs, games, and recitals, always followed by a hug and praise.

The boys attended Curé of Ars Catholic School, and Pam formed lifelong friendships with other Curé parents. In fact, she shared her love of cooking and baking with other moms in the Kitchen of Ars group for 40 years.

In 1994, Pam and George opened Land of Paws with their partners, Mark and Patty Daly. Pam loved helping customers on the floor at Land of Paws, and she was proud of the store's success.

She spent many evenings with George and friends at the Saddle & Sirloin Club. After George passed away in 2016, Pam continued to enjoy spending time with friends at the Club and on Ladies Trail Rides.

Pam was preceded in death by her husband, George; brother, Steven Olivero; and parents, Al and Betty Olivero. She is survived by her three sons, Michael (Diana), Overland Park, KS; John (Carolyn), Mission Hills, KS; and, Jim (Emily), Overland Park, KS; and seven grandchildren, Thomas, Emily, Jack, Elizabeth, George, Lauren, and Lucy, and many nieces and nephews.

The family will hold a visitation at 10:00 a.m. and mass at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, January 10, at Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, 9720 West 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66222.