Cranston Police Sgt. Michael H. Gates Dies at 64

Michael H. Gates, Det. Sgt. (Ret.) Cranston Police, 64 of Cranston, passed away on July 14, 2026, with his family by his side. He received a devastating diagnosis of ALS just over two years ago. Michael battled his disease with all the qualities that defined him as a person. He battled hand in hand with his family, filled with extraordinary courage, determination, dignity, strength, and resilience.

Born on May 4, 1962, in Providence, he was the son of the late Hollis and Brenda (Booth) Gates. He was the devoted, and cherished husband of Brenda (Barles) Gates, for over 40 years.

After graduating high school, Michael attended Syracuse University, receiving his bachelor’s degree and then went on to Roger Williams University where he received his master’s degree. After an exceptional career spanning 30 years with the Cranston Police Department, Mike retired as a second shift Detective Sergeant. Throughout his career, he handled many high-profile, complex investigations with tenacious success and was a mentor to many young detectives. He was always willing to share his insight and knowledge in hopes of being able to shape the next generation. Mike also served as an adjunct professor for the Criminal Justice Program at New England Tech, for 7 years.

However, his greatest love and accomplishments were his family. He was a little league and softball coach for 10 years for both his son and daughter. Michael became the proud Papa of Brielle and Averie and was the biggest fan of anything that his beloved granddaughters took part in. Even through his diagnosis, he made it a point to attend all gymnastics and softball events. Despite losing his voice, you could hear Michael cheering them on. He also looked forward to family trips and all the meaningful memories with his granddaughters.

When he wasn’t with his family, Mike could be found on his Harley Davidson, enjoying wherever the open road took him.

Besides his wife Brenda, he leaves his children Gianna Scotti and her husband Brandon of Cranston, and his son Michael H. Gates, Jr. He was the best Papa to his granddaughters, Brielle Scotti and Averie Scotti. He was the brother of Hollis Gates, Jr., and his wife Katie, and the brother-in-law of Rhonda Mandeville and her husband Dan. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to visitation hours on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 2:00 – 6:00 pm. Burial will be respectfully private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to ALS United RI, 2374 Post Rd. Warwick, RI 02886-2270.