Mr. Arthur Wayne Gates, Sr., 75, of Waynesboro, PA, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
Born on August 3, 1950, at his family home in Quincy Township, he was the son of the late George G. and Esther (Freeman) Gates. A lifelong resident of the Waynesboro area, he attended local schools and built a life rooted in hard work, family, and faith.
Arthur worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator, a trade that suited both his strength and his love of working outdoors. Over the years, he was employed by the Frick Company, John Kahl’s Excavation, Mills Excavating of Waynesboro, Helman’s Excavating in Quincy, and PennDOT. He took pride in honest work and in seeing the results of his labor take shape in the community around him.
On September 28, 1968, he married the love of his life, Carol A. (Sweet) Gates. Together they shared more than five decades of marriage, building a family that became his greatest joy.
Arthur was a devoted member of Emmanuel Full Gospel Church in Waynesboro. Known affectionately as “Pap” to his grandchildren, he carried that title with pride. He was often described as simply “awesome.” When he told a story, it was never small. It was a big story, told with enthusiasm and heart. He had a way of making people smile and was loved by many. He treasured time outdoors, especially farming and hunting and he valued the friendships he made throughout his life.
In addition to his wife, Carol, he is survived by his four children: Arthur Wayne Gates, Jr. of Waynesboro; Christina Mae Noll of Quincy; Todd Allen Gates of Waynesboro; and Jason David Gates and his wife, Megan, of Waynesboro; ten grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; his sister, Faye M. Noll of Waynesboro; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, George Ronald Gates, Gary Lee Gates, Anna Louise Garman, and Junior Freeman.
Graveside services will be held at Mount Zion Cemetery, Quincy Township, at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, February 27, 2026, with Pastor Richie Heinbaugh officiating.
Arrangements are entrusted to Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, Waynesboro. Online condolences may be expressed at www.bowersoxfuneralhomes.com.
