Douglas Eugene Gates, the son of Eugene Lee and Ruby Elder Gates, was born December 18, 1957, in Vandalia, Illinois. Doug was one of 13 children growing up in the Gates home.
Doug loved cooking and worked at many restaurants around the area. Doug also owned his own restaurant, D&J’s in Keyesport. He loved spending time with his family, friends, nature, and helping the community. Doug also was an avid card player and also enjoyed bowling.
He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Keyesport Lodge 1994 and the Vandalia Moose Lodge.
He is survived by siblings: David and Nu Gates, Dennis Gates, Deb and Denny Hamel, Darla Mahon and Bob, Dawn Doty, Della Beech, Darrell and Jeanette Gates, and Dale Gates. He was like a father to Jason Jones and his son Gavin Jones. Preceded in death by his parents, a sibling in infancy Donnie, sister Denise Stephen, sister Dedra Gates, and brother Danny Gates. Loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Visitation for Doug will be Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 Noon at the Donnell–Wiegand Funeral Home in Greenville. Interment will follow in McKendree Cemetery, Keyesport, Illinois. A Celebration of Doug’s life will be held at the Keyesport American Legion Hall following the interment.
Donnell–Wiegand Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice and mailed to 203 West Oak, Greenville, Illinois, 62246.