Willard Bernard “Pete” Gaines was born in Evansville, IN on September 10, 1949 to the late Francis Willard Gaines and Ann Norman.  

Pete graduated from Central High School in 1969 where he received a letter in cross country and wrestling.
 

Pete enlisted in the United States Army on November 7, 1969 where he made Sergeant (E5) and  received the National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal.

Pete confessed Christ at an early age. Pete was a dedicated member at Victory Worship Center where he loved singing in the male chorus.

He worked at Slater Steel and International Harvester for many years. 

Pete leaves to cherish his memory two sons, Bernard Gaines of Huntsville, Al and Timothy Gaines of Fisher, IN: three daughters,  Katrina Gaines, Tracy Page and Tekesha Bland of Fort Wayne, IN; sister, Fransetta Butler of Evansville, IN; loving companion, Glenda Black of Fort Wayne, IN. He also leaves a host of grand children, great-grand children, neices, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents,Francis Willard Gaines, Ann Norman and a brother, Charles Gaines.