Chester E. Gates, Jr., 85, of Charleston passed over July 11, 2008. He was born November 21, 1922, and was the son of the late Chester F. and Isabelle Gates of Vienna, WV. Chester was predeceased by two daughters, Kimberly Ann and Sandra K. Gates, and his first wife Marjorie Mc Atee Gates. Chester is survived by his wife of 38 years, Coda Carney Gates, son, Michael D. Gates Sr. and daughters Sharon J. Davis Monk and her companion Keith Taylor and Judith A. Davis Kessler. He is also survived by a brother William L. Gates of Parkersburg. He is also survived seven grandchildren: Allison D. Rhinehart and husband Jeff; Shelley L. Herrald; Brent A. Kessler and wife Lynn;: Shawne Monk and wife Lesley; Amanda M. Nicola and husband Dave; Electrea K. Crowder and husband Chris, and Michael M. Gates, Jr. Chester was an Army veteran of WWII having fought in five campaigns; Normandy, Northern France, Ardennea, Rhineland and Central Europe. He retired from the Army with 27 years of service and the rank as Captain. Chester received the Good Conduct Metal, Bronze Star Medal. Chester was a retired staff supervisor with the C&P Telephone Company (Verizon) With over 39 years of service. He was a member of Kanawha Lodge 20 AF&AM. Charleston and was a 32 degree, Scottish Rite Mason Valet of Charleston, Valley and Charleston, and was a member of the Beni Kedem Shrine. He was also a life member of the Elks, VFW, and Moose. Chester was very active in the community activities through out the years. Chester was very active in community activities throughout the years. He served as president of the Regional Development Authority for a number of years and was active in the Telephone Pioneers of America. He was currently involved with Meals on Wheels and was very active in the Telephone Pioneers of America. He was very "political minded". He was very proud of his "Doctor of Philosophy Degree" from the University of Hard Knocks. Visitation with the Gates'' Family will be from 3 to 6 PM Monday July 14, and from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM Tuesday July 15, 2008 at the Long and Fisher Funeral Home located in Pocatalico. Funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday July 15, 2008 at the Long and Fisher Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Stoner officiating, entombment will follow in the Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Beni Kedem Transportation Fund and/or the Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorder Center 401 Capitol Street. Charleston, WV 25301. Chester will be greatly missed by our family. He was a gracious man to his wife, children, great grand children whom admired his strength, wisdom, and perseverance. His encouragement and guidance was a blessing to us all.