Chuck Gates Passing

Mike Ruby let us know that there’s a note in the window of Tweedy and Popp that Chuck Gates, past long time owner of the historic Wallingford hardware store, passed away in June. From Tweedy and Popp’s Facebook page:

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of past long time owner of Tweedy & Popp Hardware, Chuck Gates. Chuck died peacefully in his sleep after brief hospitalization for a recent illness.

Chuck was a Wallingford icon, having attended St. Benedict Catholic Grade School and Lincoln High School. He began working at Tweedy & Popp while in high school and eventually bought the store in the 1960’s. Chuck was truly Seattle’s “Mr. Hardware” and in 2007 received the Estwing Golden Hammer Award for 50 years of service in the hardware industry.

In retirement Chuck and his wife Marlene moved to Sun City West, AZ where they indulged their passion for golf; they often entertained friends and family visiting from the Seattle area. The family will hold a gathering of Chuck’s friends later this Summer to celebrate and honor his life.