Sister Helen Gates, SNJM

Sister Helen Gates, age 96, died at Marie-Rose Center at Mary's Woods at Marylhurst in Lake Oswego, May 20, 2019. A member of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary for 74 years, her funeral will be held at 11 a.m., June 6, 2019, in the Chapel of the Holy Names, Lake Oswego.

Daughter of Harvey and Urania Saindon Gates, Helen grew up in Central Washington. She met the Sisters while she attending Marylhurst College. After two years, she entered and received the name Sister Clarita Mary.

For much of her career Helen was a music teacher. However, she first taught primary grades after earning an education degree at Marylhurst College. Having studied piano for years, she realized a long-held dream when she was assigned to teach music.

Leaving teaching, she spent 10 years at Marylhurst College as receptionist and copy center coordinator. Upon retiring, she was receptionist at Convent of the Holy Names, Marylhurst, drove Sisters to appointments and provided music for liturgies in the Sisters' Chapel.

Sister Helen is survived by her nieces and nephews and the members of her religious community.

Remembrances may be made to Sisters of the Holy Names, P.O. Box 398, Marylhurst, OR 97036 or online at www.snjmusontario.org/donate.

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