William Harvey Gates Sr., known to all as "Harvey" or "Harve," passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Christmas, Fla., on June 1. He was 75.

He was born on June 16, 1942 in Baltimore, Md. to Ernest and Maude Gates. The youngest of their three children with older brothers Earl and David.

After attending Kenwood High School in Essex, Md., Harvey served three years of active duty in the United States Army. Upon his discharge, he began working for National Airlines and became a lead ramp agent.

National Airlines was absorbed by Pan American Airlines in the late 1970's, and Harvey was transferred from Baltimore-Washington International Airport (Formerly Friendship Airport) to Orlando International Airport in 1979.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Gates, and seven children: Bill Jr., Julie Peterson, June Kroeker, Nathan, Joni Banks, Franklin and Christopher; 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Harvey is pre-deceased by his first wife and mother of his first six children, Joan Chisholm Gates, and his brother Earl.

The family will be having a small private service. Donations can be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society of Central Florida.