Dr. Gene Gates passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, September 26, in the ICU at Idaho Falls Community Hospital. Gene was born August 15, 1948 in New Orleans, Louisiana. His life's passion was caring for children, and he continued this important work until June 30, 2023. Gene received a BS degree in Microbiology from LSU in Baton Rouge. He went on to complete Medical School and a Pediatric Residency at LSU Medical School in New Orleans. He then completed his Neonatal Fellowship at LSU. After completing his medical training, he relocated to Monroe, Louisiana to serve as co-director of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at a regional medical center for fourteen years. In the summer of 1992, he moved his family from Monroe, Louisiana to Rexburg, Idaho where he practised pediatrics for the next 31 years, caring for multiple generations in the community.

Gene loved the mountain west and enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing with his son, watching the leaves change colours in fall, and taking long scenic drives. Whenever family and friends came to visit from out of state, Gene loved to play tour guide through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Gene was a devoted Christian and attended Watersprings Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, E.C. "Jack" and Wanda Gates, and his brother, Michael Gates. Gene is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Kathy, daughter Allyson and husband Jeremy Johnson, son Daniel Gates and wife Joelle Wymer, and his two beloved grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Greyson Johnson.

The family will receive friends Friday, September 29, at Flamm Funeral Home, 61 North 1st East, Rexburg, Idaho, from 5:30 p.m - 7:00 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Gates' honour to St Jude Children's Research Hospital at stjude.org/donate.

Gene's family would like to give a special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and all healthcare staff at Idaho Falls Community Hospital for their expert and heartfelt care.