Lynn Edward Gates

Lynn Edward Gates, 84, of North Branch passed away at his home on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Lynn was born at the family home in Deerfield Township, on August 28, 1941, the son of Emory and Annie (Mitchell) Gates. Lynn grew up in North Branch and was a 1959 graduate of North Branch High School. Lynn proudly served his country in the United States Air Force mostly stationed in Japan. He married Donna Caldwell on June 4, 1966 at the Lutheran Church in North Branch. Lynn retired from the Buick division of General Motors as an electrician.  Lynn enjoyed camping, traveling, restoring cars, and woodcarving. He could could fix almost anything. He enjoyed his winters spent in Florida with Donna.

Lynn is survived by his wife, Donna; daughter, Marie Skunda; son, Jeffrey Gates; granddaughter, Haley Skunda; sister, Carol (Chuck) Mason and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters and brothers-in-laws, Margaret (DA) Potter, Lucille (Gordon) Johnson and Sharron (Dickie) Boyne.

The family will be present for visitation on Monday, February 2, 2026, 10:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. at Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home with funeral service to follow at 1:00 P.M.  Celebrant Sue Shoemaker will officiate.  Lynn will be laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery.  Military honors will be conducted by the North Branch American Legion Post 457.

You may share an online condolence and/or memories of Lynn to the family at www.blackburnchapel.com

Arrangements by Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home

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