Rhonda E. Gates (Borsheim)

Rhonda E. Gates (Borsheim), the heart, treasure, and prayer warrior of her family, age 71, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away Friday, September 26, 2025. Born October 21, 1953, she was the daughter of Bernard and Ruth Gates. A 1971 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, Rhonda earned a degree from Spring Arbor University. She spent several years as a financial planner and stockbroker with Mass Mutual before devoting herself more fully to family and ministry. She also worked in various ministries, was instrumental in starting a Christian counseling ministry in Hawaii, and began an after-school program in Marshall, MI, with dreams of creating centers to empower children and youth.

Rhonda’s life was her family. She was “everyone’s person”—the one you could call at any hour, always ready to listen, encourage, and love. She poured her heart into her children and grandchildren, creating magical traditions, unforgettable adventures, and ordinary days made extraordinary by her presence. When others would ask about the time and energy she devoted to her family, she would simply smile and say that she had much fruit in her life—and could see the fruit in the lives she cherished.

She is survived by her beloved children: Allen Baker, Alicia (Jeff) McConville, and Amber (Yoshi) Fujita; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her sister and best friend, Paulette Gates; the father of her children and dear friend, Don Baker; and her former mother-in-law, whom she lovingly called Mom, Neda Cancaro. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Ron Gates.

Please join us for her Celebration of Life, Rhonda style, on Sunday, October 26th, from 1–5 p.m., open-house style, at 4381 M Drive S, Athens, MI 49011. Coffee & snacks provided. Bring your stories and laughter! Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Services www.henryfuneralhome.org