Last updated on: December 19, 2024
William H. Gates Sr. was an accomplished man in his own lifetime. He was the father of Bill Gates, the world-known co-founder of Microsoft. While William’s life and accomplishments are well beyond one of the richest men in the world, he was a fine attorney, philanthropist, and civic leader. And here is a closer look into his life and legacy.
Quick Facts About William H. Gates Sr
| Full Name | William Henry Gates Sr. |
| Birth Date | November 30, 1925 |
| Occupation | Attorney, Philanthropist, Civic Leader |
| Husband/Wife | Mary Maxwell Gates (first wife), Mimi Gardner Gates (second wife) |
| Education | University of Washington (Law Degree) |
| Age
Height |
94 years old (at the time of his death in 14 September 2020)
2.01 m |
| Parents | William Henry Gates I, Lillian Elizabeth Rice |
| Siblings | Had one sibling |
| Children | Bill Gates (son), Kristianne Gates (daughter), Libby Gates (daughter) |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $200 million (at the time of his death) |
Early Life and Education
William Henry Gates Sr. was born on November 30, 1925, in Seattle, Washington. He grew up at the height of change and challenge in World War II, served in the U.S. Army during that period, which shaped much of his character. After the war, he went back to civilian life, returned to the University of Washington to study law, and completed a law degree. This education helped set him on the path to a successful legal career.
His Career as a Lawyer
William Gates Sr. became a lawyer after his graduation. He founded a law firm in 1964, which eventually merged to become part of K&L Gates, one of the largest law firms in the world. William’s work in law made him known all over Seattle and beyond. His experience in the legal field helped him to be a respected figure in the business world and the community.
Besides his profession as a lawyer, William participated in many civic activities. He believed that helping the community was one of his strongest beliefs. William served in the board of different organizations, for example, the Seattle Chamber of Commerce and Planned Parenthood. Due to his dedication to his work and his community, people loved him.
Passion for Philanthropy
Philanthropy, or the act of giving to others, was a large portion of William Gates Sr.’s life. He always had a passion for making this world a better place. In 1994, he established the William H. Gates Foundation as an organization that helped those who needed it. Later it merged with the Gates Learning Foundation to become the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-one of the largest and best-known charitable organizations in the world.
By these foundations, William and his family assisted in the enhancement of health globally, alleviated poverty, and promoted education. William was very devoted to such causes and worked diligently in achieving differences in their respective causes. His philanthropy work inspired many people to contribute back to their communities and the world.
His Family Life
William H. Gates Sr. was married twice throughout his life. His first wife was Mary Maxwell Gates, who was a generous philanthropist and played an important role in her community. From their union, they produced three children, one of whom happens to be the famous Bill Gates. William’s second wife was Mimi Gardner Gates. In both marriages, he took an active role of providing for his family as well as encouraging his kids to pursue their dreams.
William had a special relationship with Bill. He was always a supportive father who helped Bill learn important lessons about contributing to society and making the world a better place. Even while Bill Gates became one of the richest men on earth, William remained a guiding influence in his life.
Life of Service
William Gates Sr. was a man of much duty and service. His legal career and philanthropy were always done with a view to helping others. In charity and civic life, he illustrated how much he cared about people’s lives being improved.
He reached not only to his own society but extended all over the world. By the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he is still changing many aspects of the world. He always thought that nothing big could stop a human from solving if he would unite himself and others to try.
READ ALSO: Bill Gates Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
William H. Gates Sr. passed away on September 14, 2020. He was 94 years old. His legacy left behind is a powerful one – service, community involvement, and philanthropy. His life showed how important it is to give and work to make the world better. His efforts to assist those in need continue to inspire his children, especially Bill Gates, who continues leading the Gates Foundation.
Though William is no more, his values and work are still alive. His commitment to philanthropy and the mission of his family to better lives worldwide will always be remembered.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com
