Darlene Joan Gates

Darlene Joan Gates, 91, of Kewanna, passed away Monday, September 23, 2024, at Life Care Center in Rochester. She was born in New Waverly on September 5, 1933, to Daniel and Sylvia (Spurgeon) Wilson. On December 1, 1961, she married Gilbert “Jim” Gates. He preceded her in passing on February 24, 2023.

Darlene enjoyed her sports. She enjoyed watching Colts football, Notre Dame football, IU and college basketball. She also enjoyed reading mystery novels and eating mushrooms. 

Darlene is survived by her daughters, Cindy (Michael) Early of Rochester, Glenna (Ron) Youngblood of Peru; sons, James Eric (Marilee) Gates of Kewanna, Danny J. (Elaine) Pottenger of Logansport; six grandchildren, Aaron Youngblood, Justin Malott, Adriene Early, Payton (Kinsey Anderson) Gates, Carson Gates, and Garret Gates; step grandchildren, Brian Early and Abigail Wagler; great grandchildren, Damon (Lexa Sprague) Malott, Ethan Malott, Addison Malott, Grayson Malott, Stella Early, Max Youngblood, Madison Youngblood; and a sister, Hermalene Jenkins of Greentown.

Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Gail Kraning, Claudia Wilson, Nellie Baker, Marjorie Wilson, Geraldine Lees, Marie Wilson, Barbara Thorpe, Phyllis Malott; and a brother, Tommy Wilson.

The family wishes to extend a thank you to the Life Care Center of Rochester for the care provided during Joan’s stay.

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. Gundrum Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting with the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be left in Darlene’s honor to Fulton County Humane Society. Messages of condolence may be left at www.gundrumcares.com.