GATES, Margaret Carol

Margaret Carol Gates: 80, of Timberlea, passed away December 30, 2017 in Halifax. If one word could sum up a life, for Margaret Gates that word would be devotion.  Born (1937) and raised in The Forties, Lunenburg County, Margaret was a daughter of the late Sarah Jane (Bezanson) and Edward Alexander Hiltz. There she met Lindsay Gates, the love of her life, with whom she enjoyed over six decades of happy marriage. Together they moved to Halifax to pursue their educations and start their family. Margaret was defined by her devotion to her husband and girls and articulated that devotion in countless everyday activities. Margaret was a constant supporter of “her man.” In the early years Margaret worked in the accounting department of Maritime Tel & Tel and in retail with a number of companies.  She was a long-time member of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church and was an active participant over the years in Ladies Guild enrichment. The people of Greenwood Heights would remember Margaret for her many years of dedication to fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society and other neighbourhood activities. She was an active crafter, a skill handed down from her mother. Also a devotee of organized fitness activities long before such was commonly embraced.  Margaret had a special skill of making everyone feel special. Her warm hugs will be sadly missed. She leaves to grieve her husband, Lindsay Gates and daughters, their spouses and children: Carla Gates-Morris (Bill Morris), Dartmouth and son Cory Morris (Gisele), Halifax; Peggy Gates-Hammond (Roger Hammond), Dartmouth; Julie Gates (Lisa Kelly) and children Thomas and Amelia Eaton, Toronto; as well as one sister, Maxine MacDonald (John) and many nieces, nephews and special others. Special thanks to the countless friends, neighbours and family members who have been so very attentive during Margaret’s illness. Particular thanks to the “exercise girls” and to the caring staff of the QEII Cancer Centre and Dr. Robert Scovill. Memorial donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Timberlea, the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation by request. The funeral service, followed by a reception, was held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2018 in St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Timberlea, Reverend Mark Pretty officiating. A private interment will take place at a later date. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. On-line inquiries and condolences may be directed to http://www.whitefamilyfuneralhome.com/ .