Posted by Dr. Lewis "Bob" Sorley '56 on May 4, 2012:

I first met Sam Gates on one of the early weekends when as plebes in Beast Barracks we were allowed "walking privileges." Along with a dozen or so other Army brats, I was invited to the Central Apartments home of the Cadet Hostess, Mrs. Doris Barth, who with her late husband had been friends of my parents in the Old Army. Sam, whose widowed mother was then Assistant Cadet Hostess, was also there, and from that day forward we were friends. Many years later, following his Army service, Sam and Emma resided in Short Hills, New Jersey, where my sister Judith also lived. Sometimes I'd stop by to be entertained by Sam and his great fund of stories and observations. My strongest memory of Sam in his full glory occurred following the death of his mother, who had resided at what I think was then still called the Army Distaff Hall in Washington, where two of my elderly aunties also lived. A memorial service was held for Sam's mother, and he presided. Speaking for maybe thirty minutes without a note, Sam told stories about his mother, acknowledged friends in the congregation and recalled shared experiences with them, and generally held forth in what can only be called a delightful tour de force. I especially remember his recalling, lovingly and with great charm, how his mother could listen to discussion of some matter of which she had absolutely no previous knowledge and, within fifteen minutes, develop a fixed opinion on the matter from which thereafter she could absolutely not be budged. Sam Gates was one of the great personalities it has ever been my privilege to know. I shall remember him always with admiration, affection, and a smile. May he rest in peace.

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