Dora C. Gates, 94

Dora C. Gates, 94, died on Nov. 23, 2021, in Kalispell.

She was born Sept. 15, 1927, to Octavia and Salomon Torres from Peru. Dora immigrated from Peru to Montara, California. She worked in her Uncle Frank’s restaurant and met her soul mate, John Gates. They married and raised their children in Clarksburg, California. Dora lived in Clarksburg for 50 years before moving to Kalispell to be close to her daughter.

Dora received her cosmetology license and cut hair for many years. She loved to sew and was an excellent cook. Dora also loved to travel to many places.

She was very proud of her Peruvian roots and loved getting family and friends together. She was asked, “What was the happiest time in your life,” and she said, raising her family.

Dora is survived by her sister Georgina Fritch, 100 years; children, Jennifer Peterson and Paul and Jan Gates; niece, Gloria Essner; grandchildren, Justine, Jamie, Bryan, Christian and Jessica; and great-granddaughter, Jaymee.