Obituary of Jim Bates
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Jim Bates on July 11th, after a five-month battle with glioblastoma (brain tumour).
Jim was born in 1951 in Hamilton, Ontario where he spent his first nine years before moving to London. In 1976 Jim travelled out west and sought adventure on a fishing boat just off the coast of Vancouver. September of that year, Jim attended Mountain View Bible College where he met Dolores, the love of his life, and they were married in 1978.
He was a welder for the City of Red Deer for over 30 years before ending his working years driving hotshot; learning much about the oil patch while appreciating the beauty of Northern Alberta.
It was a highlight for Jim to be able to serve Haiti Arise on two occasions. He thoroughly enjoyed welding under a mango tree.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Dolores, of 45 years, and will be forever cherished by his three sons, Nathan, Aaron, David (Meredith); and grandchildren – Sadie, Loewy, and Jack. He will also be sadly missed by Lynda (Gary) Schilbe, Debbie McEwen, Gloria (Ron) Vollmin, Stan (Gail) Strome, Gary Strome, Peggy (Jim) Wright, Sharyn Melo, Vera (John) Lucas, Mervin (Delphine) Strome; as well as by numerous nieces, nephews and good friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Lena; niece Ashley Schilbe; brother-in-law Mike McEwen; and Dolores’ parents, Wes and Marj Strome.
Jim was steadfast in his walk with God; a humble man that enjoyed serving God and others. Many memorable times were spent in the outdoors, whether it was biking, camping or spending time in the backyard.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the medical staff of Unit 12, Foothills Medical Centre for their outstanding care. Also, to the Red Deer Hospice who went above and beyond in their love and care for Jim and his family during the past two and a half months.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Thursday, July 20th, 1:30 at CrossRoads Church, with Pastor Dan Cochrane officiating.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to Haiti Arise, www.haitiarise.org, or to the Red Deer Hospice Society, 99 Arnot Avenue, Red Deer. Condolences to Jim’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Bates” in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944