On June 21, 2016 at 12:05 PM, Paul Douglas Gates departed his earthly life and went home to be with his Father in Heaven. Paul passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born in Olla, LA and a long-time resident of Baton Rouge, Paul was preceded in death by his mother, Frankie Alma Bass Gates; his father, Marshall Hardy Gates and his father-in-law, Valfred Amato. A much loved husband, father and grandfather, Paul is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 33 years, Michele Amato Gates, his children and grandchildren: Susan Gates Coffman and husband Steve and grandson Zack; Marshall and wife Brittany; Valyne and fiancee' Jerry Tubbs and grandson Kaden Paul. Paul worked for WAFB for 35 years as a successful reporter and anchor. He won numerous awards, including Broadcaster of the Year, Investigative Reporter of the Year and Reporter of the Year. Paul also received the distinction of being an Honorary Member of the Baton Rouge Rotary Club where he served as the emcee for many years. Paul served as spokesperson for the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Walk as well as Chairperson of the Run to Cure Alzheimer's Disease. Visitation will be held at Rabenhorst Funeral Home on Government St on Thursday, June 23 from 5:00pm-8:00pm. The following day, Friday, June 24, there will be visitation at 9:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am celebrated by Father Cleo Milano at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church. Pallbearers are Joshua Hirschey, Donovan Amato, Dominic Gulino, Joseph Amato, Luke LeBlanc, Jerry Tubbs and Zack Hamm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Alzheimer's Services of the Capital Area, 3772 North Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70806.
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