Donna Jean Gates (McDade), spouse of Craig A. Gates, passed away on Friday, May 1st 2026 in a car accident in Lusk, Wyoming, while traveling to visit family.Donna was born in Denver, Colorado, on April 9, 1958, to Cheri Lee Weeter (Boone) and Ronald L. Smith.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, John Boone and Cheri L. Boone; siblings Tommy W. Smith and Veronica R. Wheeler; and grandchildren Trace A. Alexander and Parkyr L. Cline.Donna is survived by her three daughters: Amanda Sue McDade of Wyoming, Brandy Lee Cline (McDade) of Colorado, and Lacey Marie McDade of Arizona; and her sister, Patty A. Thompson. She is also survived by her grandchildren Brooklyn J. Elliott, Delainey S. Dresen, Alexis M. McDade, Paislee M. Cline, and Nash L. McDade; along with her nieces Theresa L. Smith, Cheri Wheeler, DaVonna M. Dutton, and Jessica R. Dutton.Throughout her life, 

Donna enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, boating, and gardening, her and Craig enjoyed riding his motorcycle and visiting the beach. Donna loved spending quality time with her beloved grandchildren and her three daughters.After retiring, Donna and Craig enjoyed spending quality time together and had returned to their passion for traveling and admiring the ocean.In recent years, Donna had returned to her faith in God. She spent a considerable amount of time devoted to her beliefs by connecting with her church and participating in fellowship through faith.On November 15, 2025, Donna married her lifelong soulmate, Craig A. Gates. 

Craig and Donna met when they were 15 years old, and although life led them in separate directions for many years, they always kept in touch throughout the years. Donna and Craig eventually reconnected and spent the majority of the last decade of their lives together.Donna will be tremendously missed. She will be remembered for her caring heart, unconditional love, and unwavering support for those she cared about most.Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Mountainview Christian Church, 40 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, Highlands Ranch, Colorado.