Obituary of Gail Elizabeth Bates

Gail passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family on October 24, 2022 at the age of 76. Beloved wife of 50 years to George. Loving mother to DeLorra (Jason) Wall, the late George Bates, Rosalynde "Lynde" (Jason) Hill and Veronica (Richard) Bowyer. Cherished Nana to Kyle (Hannah), Jayden, Shayne, Addison, Jonathan and Jacob. Much loved great-grandmother of Adriel and Ezekiel. Gail was the very proud eldest sister to Terry (Gerry), Jane, Arthur (Sarita), Kathy (Barry), Ronald (Mariko), Patti (Craig) and Robin (Stephen). She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Predeceased by her parents Arthur and Sylvia Peltomaa.

Gail and her husband owned and operated Danforth Village Antiques in the 70s. She had an eye for antiques and collectibles, always able to spot something of value, whether it was at the flea market with kids in tow or buying contents at an estate sale. A true entrepreneur, Gail would go on to become a pioneer on Ebay in the early 90s, and over the years would continue to educate herself on antiques, collectibles, and vintage clothing. Recently, Gail had become a founding member of Farmasi Canada, a job that she not only loved, but was also able to do alongside her daughter and sisters. Gail loved sharing her entrepreneurial ideas with her siblings so they could experience success as well. Gail was a talented artist, and had a passion for painting and drawing. She was also an avid poker player, with her skills leading to her involvement teaching online poker. A lover of travel, Gail enjoyed road trips with George exploring North America on long-haul trips in their early days and in their camper during the last few years. Gail especially enjoyed her visits to Las Vegas and Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Gail was a woman who lived her life on her terms, and in her way, and she expressed that she was leaving this world without regrets. Gail held firmly to her values and had no difficulty defending what she believed to be just and true. She was generous to a fault, never putting herself first and always doing what she could to make other people happy. Known for her elegance, Gail's smile would light up any room she walked into and she had a remarkable ability to make anyone smile, even on their worst days. She was a huge animal lover, never shying away from taking in another stray. Gail loved wholeheartedly, and never had a bad word to say about anyone. She leaves behind a legacy of love for her family, who meant the world to her and of whom she had so much pride.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the Home Health Palliative Care team, especially Lori, and to the Niagara EMS Palliative team for taking such tremendous care of Gail during her final days.

In keeping with Gail's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of her life will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Walker Family Cancer Centre or to the Niagara SPCA.