Larry D. Gates

Larry Gates May 13, 1936 – August 30, 2026 Larry Gates, 90, of McFarland, Wisconsin, passed away on August 30, 2026, in Jefferson, Wisconsin. Larry was born on May 13, 1936, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, to Fred and Helen Gates.

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958 and again from 1962 to 1968, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. His service was recognized with numerous decorations, including two Bronze Stars, two Army Commendation Medals, and an Air Medal. His years in uniform instilled in him a lifelong sense of duty, discipline, and quiet pride that his family will always remember.

Larry was part of his family's business, Riverside Marine in Rhinelander, one of the first Ski-Doo snowmobile dealerships in the country, and later built a long, respected career in the propane industry as a General Manager for Petrolane, which became Suburban Propane. Known for turning around underperforming regions, his talent took him and his family to postings across the country. He invented the "Truck Rodeo," an annual event of driving challenges that became a hallmark of his leadership and was widely credited with significantly improving driver safety across the company. He also had a memorable connection to the film industry, receiving credit for directing the explosives used in a movie scene.

An excellent golfer, Larry enjoyed time on the course and took pride in his skill. He was also an excellent cook, sharing his talent and love of good food with family and friends. Above all, Larry was an extremely generous person, always willing to help someone in need, whether financially or with his time.

Like his father Fred, Larry was an avid fisherman and loved to spend time fishing with his sons and grandchildren. Larry found joy in the simple things — a day spent fishing, an afternoon on the golf course, and above all, cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines of their games. Watching them play brought him some of his greatest happiness in later years.

Larry is survived by his sons, Larry Gates II (Deborah) and Greg Gates; step children Gus Gudleske (Carrie), Lynelle Gudleske, and Larissa Gudleske; his sister, Mary; grandchildren Emily Gates, Megan Gates, Tyler Gates, Lacy Gudleske, Cody Gudleske, PJ Gudleske, and Freddy Gudleske; and 5 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Helen Gates; his siblings, Fred Jr., Janice, and Kenneth; and his grandson, Jeremy Way.

A visitation will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 5801 US Highway 51, McFarland, Wisconsin, followed by a celebration of life service at 4:00 PM. A gathering to celebrate Larry's life will follow at the McFarland American Legion Post 534, 4911 Burma Road, McFarland, Wisconsin.

For those not able to attend in person, please register at the following link to view a copy of Larry’s service:

https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=c33643f7-807b-4c2d-8800-33201a575945

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to McFarland American Legion Post 534.

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

5801 Highway 51 McFarland

(608) 838-0655