Obituary of Becky Ann Gates

Becky Ann Gates, 71, was surrounded by family as she passed peacefully on November 15, 2020. Because of COVID-19, there will be no in-person service. Becky’s wishes were to be cremated and her remains scattered by family among places that brought her joy and happiness. A celebration of life will occur next summer at a family cabin in Minnesota, one of Becky’s favorite places. Becky was born on June 20, 1949 to Marcus and Rita Zumwalde. She was raised in Richmond, Minnesota with her siblings Tom and Sue. In 1967 Becky graduated from St. Boniface High school in Cold Spring, MN. She continued her education at the St. Cloud Hospital X-Ray Technical School, graduating in 1969 as Radiologic Technologist. Following her graduation, Becky headed for the mountains and made special memories and lifelong friendships working and living in Colorado and Arizona before eventually returning to the Midwest and settling in Algona, IA in 1978 to live and raise a family. She had a long career as an X-ray tech at the Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona, IA. If you were fortunate enough to know Becky, you likely ate some of her homemade goodies made with love. There was not a holiday or celebration where the day didn’t start with Becky’s monkey bread and egg-bake. Becky was the best gift-giver, whether it was Christmas with her family, or remembering friends and other loved ones on their birthdays and anniversaries. Becky set the bar incredibly high in everything she did. She was kind, the hardest worker, and the most patient of souls. Becky will be remembered as someone who always had your back, she was there for you unconditionally. Her support, strength, and love were unwavering and unparalleled. She was happy when her family was happy, always celebrating our highs and supporting us in our lows. Becky received so much joy from being with family, especially her grandchildren for with whom she shared very special relationships. She loved travelling, reading, golfing, and celebrating Christmas. In retirement she enjoyed volunteering for Meals on Wheels and the Kossuth Regional Hospital Auxiliary. Those left to cherish Becky’s memory are her husband Jim; her children Jenny (Dennis) Becker of Coralville, IA, Jessica (Chris) Kern of Algona, IA, Janelle Gates of Boise, ID, and Jordan Gates of Sumner, IA. Grandchildren Charlie and Jon Becker, Caden and Gavin Weber, and Harlow Kern. Brother Tom (LuAnn) Zumwalde and Sue (John) Backes. Becky also had many cousins, nieces and nephews, godchildren, cherished friends, and extended family she cared so deeply for. She was preceded in death by her parents; by two sons-in-law (Robby Weber and Sean Beaver); and by one infant angel, Sloane Kern. To share a memory or condolence, please visit the funeral home website at www.gayandciha.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to The University of Iowa Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) caring fund in loving memory of Becky Gates (givetoiowa.org/cvicu). All of these healthcare professionals took such special care of Becky during the past few months and her family is forever grateful.