Francis M. Bates

BATES, MR. FRANCIS M. Bailey, MI Mr. Francis M. Bates, age 64, died after a brief illness, on Saturday, September 3, 2005. Mr. Bates was born on March 4, 1941 in Grand Haven, MI to William E.L. and Hazel Beatrice Furman Bates and married Judith Ann Florence on July 9, 1966 in Fruitport, MI. An Army veteran, Mr. Bates served his country overseas in Korea and retired as an inspector at the Hy-Lift Division of Sealed Power. He enjoyed music concerts, dances, and foremost the activities with his grandchildren. SURVIVORS 1 son, Tim Bates of Grand Rapids; 2 daughters, Kimberly George Williams of Holton; Chris Martin Schutter of Sand Lake; 4 grandchildren, Kevin, Matt, Katelynn, and Jacob; his mother, Hazel Turns of Muskegon; 1 sister, Marva Knutson of North Muskegon; special friend, Elizabeth Walwood of Grand Haven. Mr. Bates was preceded in death by his wife, Judith in 2001, a brother Bill Bates, his father, Francis, his stepmother, Rosebud and a niece, Brenda Ronning. SERVICE Thursday, September 8, 2005, 1:00 PM at Clock Chapel - Fruitport with Pastor Ron Ayres officiating. Interment at Fruitport Cemetery. VISITATION Wednesday, 2-4 & 7-9 PM at Clock Chapel - Fruitport. MEMORIAL: Hospice of Muskegon-Oceana. CLOCK - Fruitport