Thomas Dwaine Gates

Thomas “Tom” Dwaine Gates, 82, of Binghamton, New York, passed away peacefully at
home on April 6, 2026, after a brief time in hospice care following a long illness with
cancer. He was born on November 15, 1943, in Greene, New York, to John and Ethel
Gates.
Tom was the beloved husband of Joan Gates (Engler). Married on August 28, 1971,
they shared more than five decades of love, partnership, and devotion. He is survived
by his daughter, Jodie Gates, and was a loving grandfather to Jannel Sansone
(Jeremy), Blake Bried, Brock Bried, Brooke Schmitt, and Thomas Schmitt.
He is also survived by his siblings Lois Lum (Richard), Daniel Gates, Greg Gates and
Alice Jean Donovan. In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his siblings
Kenneth Gates, John Gates Jr., Phyllis Mignerey, and Jan Delaney.
Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1969, where he
attained the rank of Spec 5 and received the National Defense Service Medal. He will
be celebrated with military honors in recognition of his service.

For more than 30 years, Tom worked as a printing press operator at Binghamton
University, where he was known as a dependable and hardworking employee. Outside
of work, he was an avid bowler in his local league, earning numerous awards, including
rings for perfect 300 games and multiple 700 series awards. He also enjoyed hunting,
fishing, and spending time with his closest friends Jimmy Wilson and Steve Arsenault.
In later years, Tom found joy in seeking out hidden treasures at weekend garage sales
and especially cherished the time spent hosting his own garage sales alongside his
grandson Brock—moments that became meaningful and lasting family memories.
Tom was a member of the American Legion in Harpursville, New York, for 56 years,
reflecting his lifelong dedication to service, fellowship, and community.
Known for his humor and kind-hearted nature, Tom will be remembered fondly by his
family, friends, and all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service with military honors at 
1 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Vestal Hills Cemetery. All are welcome to join
a Celebration of Life to be held following the service at 3:30 p.m. at the Harpursville
American Legion, 760 Welton Street, Harpursville, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Binghamton Humane Society,
the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or the American Cancer Society.

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