GATES, Joseph "Lawrence" -87 of Forest Glade, Annapolis County passed away, Tuesday, August 28, 2012 surrounded by his family in The Ivy Meadows Nursing Home, Beaverbank, NS. Born in Forest Glade, he was a son of the late Joseph and Lena (Saunders) Gates. Lawrence was a retired farmer and a longtime member and former deacon of the Margaretville Baptist Church and a member of the Lawrencetown Male Choir. He enjoyed square dancing, music - playing many instruments as well as attending community events. Lawrence was extremely proud of his family, especially his grandchildren. He is survived by sons, Brian (Wendy) Gates, Fall River and Greg (Linda) Gates, Bedford; grandchildren, Nathan, Collin, Jarred and Monica. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his wife the former Frances Rafuse; sister, Ruth and brothers, John Clifford, Ernest, George and Malcolm. Visitation will be held 7:00 to 9:00PM, Thursday, August 30, 2012 in the Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street (902) 825-3448. The funeral service will be held 11:00AM Friday, August 31, 2012 in Margaretville Baptist Church with Rev. Eugene Foster and Rev. John Thornton officiating. Interment will be in Church Grove Cemetery, Melvern Square. By request, family flowers only. Donations in memory may be made to Canadian Cancer Society or Margaretville Baptist Church. Online guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com