Robert Washington Bates, age 81, son of Virgil Robert and Mary Elizabeth (Thompson) Bates, was born June 21, 1931, in Licking, Mo. He passed away his home in Licking, Mo., on Sept. 6, 2012.
Robert was born and raised in the Licking area and attended school there.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Diana Mae Lewis; one grandson, Steven Allen Hall; two great-grandchildren, Cody and Brittany; two sisters, Virginia and Edna; and three brothers, Chuck, Wayne and Ed.
He is survived by his two sons, Bob and wife, Debbie, of Licking, Mo., and Joseph of Licking, Mo.; two daughters, Mary Castleberry of Rich Hill, Mo., and Joyce Bates of Grandview, Mo.; three brothers, Ray and Joan of Glendale Heights, Ill., Gary and wife, Jane, of Licking, Mo., and Dean and wife, Betty, of Rosemonte, Ill.; two sisters, Marie York of Plato, Mo., and Louise Walker and husband, Bill, of Licking, Mo.; one sister-in-law, Maryann Bates; 10 grandchildren, Vanessa, Stephanie, Faith, Angela, Christina, B.J., Brandy, Tabitha, William and Samantha; 18 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends made throughout the years.
Robert enjoyed being out of doors. He was a fisherman, going to the rivers and lakes to have fun and be with family and friends. One of his greatest joys was his farm and cattle. He truly loved the work of being with and caring for his stock. His other love was his family. Whenever or wherever, there was a family gathering he would be there, teasing and talking.
Robert loved his farm, family and visiting. He was fun to be around and he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers with the Texas County Hospice of Care. Their concern and support was very much appreciated.
Services were 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 11, at Evans Funeral Home with Pastor Billy Walker officiating. Burial was in Ellis Prairie Cemetery. Pallbearers were Sean Akers, Teresa Bates, Christy Bates Sawyer, Austin Diedrich, Bobby Bates, Eli York and Ronnie York.
Memorials may be to the Ellis Prairie Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to www.evansfh.com. Services were under direction of Evans Funeral Home.
