Donald J. Bates

Donald J. Bates

BATH – In the comfort of his home Donald J. Bates peacefully left this earthly life to reunite with his heavenly family on April 8, 2023.  He was born to a family of nine children and often told stories of his fun childhood.

Donald was a proud 52-year employee of Mercury Aircraft, in Hammondsport, starting as a shipping clerk and then a purchasing agent, a job that he enjoyed right up until his retirement.

Donald relished his time at the country place; hunting, fishing, and keeping the grounds.  It was a place that filled his retirement years with much joy.  It was in his twilight years that he enjoyed the simpler life, such as sitting on the porch to visit with friends and family, enjoying an occasional  game of rummy, or a trip to Depot Park in Hammondsport to enjoy the sights and sound of the tourist and the lake lovers.

He is survived by his loving partner of 35 years Wilma (Hallett) Storm; son Donnie (JoAnn) Bates; daughter Jenifer Miller; sister Barbra Jones; brother Roger Bates; sister Linda (John) Frey; and many nieces and nephews. He was Grandpa to Bradley and Leah, Poppy to Andrea and Kathryn, and Great-Grandpa to Grady, McKenna, and Sage.

He was predeceased by his parents Francis & Flosie (Smith) Bates; brother Richard Bates; sisters Pauline Stratton, Mary Wagner, Nancy Gleason, and Lois Ellis.

To honor his wishes the final arrangements will be private.

In lieu of flowers contributions in his honor can be made to Hammondsport United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 44, Hammondsport, NY 14840.

The Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, 35 Main St., Hammondsport is honored to assist Donald’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences and remembrances of Donald are welcome in comment section below or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.

God saw you were getting tired, and a cure was not to be.  So, he put his arms around you and whispered, “come to me.”

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