Mr. Charles F. “Shorty” Gates, 66, of Greencastle, PA, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, December 22, 2024 in the Emergency Room of Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital.
Born May 1, 1958 in Waynesboro, PA, he was the son of the late Charles R. and Jane V. (Cross) Gates.
He attended Martinsburg, WV High School, later enlisting in the United States Army where he served during the Vietnam War.
For over 30 years, he made his living as a long-haul truck driver. Most recently, he was employed as a dump truck driver for Northside Trucking, Shippensburg, PA. He retired December 20, 2024 after many years of service.
A man who loved the outdoors, Shorty especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his son and grandson. He also was a car enthusiast and played men’s softball on several local teams.
He is survived by his wife of over 34 years, Mrs. Elizabeth A. “Beth” (Placino) Gates, who he married August 17, 1990 and had been together with for nearly 48 years since being childhood sweethearts; two children, Samantha R. Gates and Shane T. Gates and his fiancé, Maria Stacey, all of Greencastle; grandson, Brayden R. Gordon; two sisters, Debora (Gates) Martin of Virginia and Dolly (Gates) Franzone of West Virginia; numerous aunts, uncles nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; as well as a host of extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one uncle, Roger Gates.
A Celebration of Shorty’s Life will be held in the Spring of 2025. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.
Charlie “Shorty” was a good ol boy and he be truly missed greatly by his family and friends
Arrangements are by Miller-Bowersox Funeral Home, Greencastle, PA.
