MADISON - Mary Margaret Gates, age 100, of Madison, passed away on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Complete Care at Maple Grove. She was born on November 20, 1925, in Madison, the daughter of Gabriel and Emily Saddy.

Mary graduated from Central High School. She was united in marriage to David Gates on March 3, 1947, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Madison.

Mary devoted her early years to caring for and raising her children, cherishing her role as a homemaker until they were grown. She later began a career as a receptionist with the State of Wisconsin Insurance Commissioner’s Office, where she worked until her retirement in 1990.

Mary found joy in many simple pleasures. She loved walking and participating in run/walk races alongside her husband and family. She enjoyed knitting with longtime friends, sewing, and baking. She cherished family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Mary had a strong commitment to the deaf community, where she enjoyed helping and connecting with others.

Mary is survived by her children, David (Barb) Gates, Mary G. Gates, John Gates, Zann (Jeff Roush) Gates and Paul (Mary Ableman) Gates; grandchildren, Mike (Sue) Gates, Matt (Heather) Gates and Leigh (Carson) Van Gelder; step-grandchildren, John (Sasha Bulatskaya) Hermansen, Dan (Melissa) Polley, Patrick Polley and Daina (Mehran) Mehrabi; great grandchildren, Ben, Steven, Jacob, Sydney and Isla; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, David Gates; infant children, Gerald, Margaret, Peter and Allen; and parents, Gabriel and Emily Saddy.

A private family gathering will be held at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Mary Margaret Gates

November 20, 1925 - September 25, 2026

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