Henry Lee Gates was born to Henry Leo Gates and Opal Gray Gets on January 25, 1933, in Peach Orchard, Arkansas. He was raised by his mother and wonderful stepfather, Thomas Gets on. He went home to be with the Lord on September 24, 2016, with his loving family by his side. Henry grew up in Arkansas and moved to California in 1957 where he met the love of his life, Lillie. They married in 1959 and moved to Shafter where they raised their family. He worked as a welder/mechanic and could weld or fix anything. Everyone knew Henry either had it, it was for sale, or if they couldn't fix it, he could. He had a passion for old cars and loved driving them as fast as they would go. He also loved to ride motorcycles, and in his later years rode a 3wheeled trike with Lillie. They traveled many miles with their biker buddies and made some great memories. Henry loved hunting, fishing and hanging out with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Henry is a Veteran of the Korean War having served with the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 in Baumholder, Germany. He was a sharpshooter and received recognition for his excellent marksmanship. After returning home he went on to serve another 6 years in the Reserves. Henry was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; three sisters, and his grandson, Shannon Lee Whitfield. He is survived by his loving wife, Lillie; his daughter, Anita Whitfield and fiancé, Butch; his daughter, Linda Hengtgen and husband, Jeff; his son, Donald Gates and wife Lissa; 4 grandchildren, Dawn, Brandon, Nicholas, Tyler, and 5 great grandchildren. Two sisters; Doris Briggs and Shirley Crabtree. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 29, 2016, at 2:00 P.M. at the Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E Bear Mountain Blvd. Arvin, CA In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bakersfield National Cemetery Beautification Fund, in honor of Henry Lee Gates.