GATES, Merrill Willoughby - 71 of South Farmington passed away Saturday, September 29, 2012 at home. Born in Middleton, he was a son of the late Willoughby and Alice (Crocker) Gates. Merrill retired from CFB Greenwood as a Barrack Warden after 23 years. He worked at the Greenwood Arena and Curling Rink and the Greenwood Golf Course as grounds keeper and was an avid fisherman, hunter and trapper. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, the former Marian Crouse; daughters, Lisa Gates (Darren Spidell), Clarence and Teresa Gates, Nictaux; sisters, Margie Parks, Kingston; Arlene (Fred) McKay, Aylesford; Janet Gates, Kentville and Penny Gates (Larry McKay) Aylesford; brothers, Carl Gates (Susan Milbury) and Fred Gates, both of Wilmot and granddaughter, Kendra Specht. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Mary and Ruth. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held 2:00PM, Sunday, October 7, 2012 in the Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street (902) 825-3448 with Rev. Patty Beals officiating. Donations in memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia, Canadian Diabetes Association or a Charity of Choice. Online guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com