Brian R. GATES, 69, of Scio, NY, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, August 27, 2026, in his home. 

Born April 12, 1957, in Olean, he was the son of Frederick R. and Patricia A. Huling Gates. A 1975 graduate of Scio Central School, he was employed by A.L. Blades and then by Suit-Kote in Belmont as the plant supervisor. 

Brian was a member of the Wellsville American Legion and former member of the Wellsville Moose Lodge and the Wellsville VFW. He was also an avid bowler for 40 years on the Monday Night League. An outdoorsman, Brian loved to hunt, fish, feed and watch birds. He took pride in everything he did, his work, and his grandkids. He loved to tell stories from back in the day, especially those involving his best friend, Buck. 

Surviving are: his father, Fred Gates of Front Royal, VA; his longtime partner of 17 years, Stacie Woodruff; two sons, Cory (Kimberly) Gates of Wellsville and Jason Gates of Dansville; Stacie’s sons, Tyler (Tamara) Green of Wellsville, Tristen Woodruff and Trace Woodruff, both of Scio; six grandchildren, Jillian Gates, Peyton Ribblett, Adyson Smith, Heather Gates, Theo Green, and Foster Green; a brother, Lee Gates of Rock City; a sister, Rebecca White of Bath; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Patricia; and stepmother, Mary I. Gates. 

Friends may call at Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State St., Wellsville on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 from 12:00 – 2:00 PM, with a Memorial Service following at 2:00 PM. Memorials may be made to SPCA serving Allegany County. 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.