Middleburgh: William E. Gates, Jr., 83, of Armlin Hill Road, died Saturday, July 8, 2017 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady.

Bill was born on July 7, 1934 in the Town of Fulton to Mildred (Boughton) and William E. Gates, Sr.

He graduated from Middleburgh Central School and proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956.

Bill worked for Joe Beretz in Middleburgh for many years and also at the Laborer's Union Local #157 in Schenectady.

He enjoyed fishing, watching Sci-Fi and putting puzzles together.

Bill was predeceased by his love of over 50 years, Clara Bell Papas, son: Charles Gates, sister: Helen Trusdale.

He is survived by his sons: William (Doreen) Papas, Jr. of West Fulton, Patrick Papas of Middleburgh, Steven (Debbie) Papas of Gilboa, James Papas of Middleburgh, William (Dawn) E. Gates, III of Middleburgh; sisters: Lucretia King of Middleburgh, Marion Kern of Chatham; brother: Judson (Nancy) Gates of Middleburgh and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00PM on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC, 134 River Street, Middleburgh.  Burial will follow in Summit Cemetery.  All are invited to a visitation at the funeral home from 11:00AM-12:00PM, prior to the service.