John Bates Jr.

John Bates, Jr. of Chilliwack passed away peacefully with his wife at his side on October 21, 2024 at the age of 61. John was born on January 19, 1963 in Augusta, Georgia and grew up in Gaffney, South Carolina.

John worked for the Ministry of Social Development at the time of his passing, and was previously in retail management at Home Depot and Canadian Tire in Canada. In the U.S. his employment included working as a welder and truck driver.

John was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Arrowhead Bates, brother Kevin Dean Bates and father John Bates, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 20 years Kathy Bates, two sons, John Bates III and Eric Bates of Markesan, Wisconsin, sister Kim Bates (Brian) of Baltimore, Maryland and brother Rodney Bates (Jo Anne) of Gaffney, South Carolina.

John was a loving husband, a loyal friend and dedicated worker with the highest of integrity. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit and boisterous laugh. John loved his dogs, Ozzy and Dobby, enjoyed cruising and Mexico, camping, barbequing, his truck, Camels and a cold Bud. He was rarely seen without a ball cap and was very patriotic to the U.S.

Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at Woodlawn Mt Cheam Funeral Home, 45865 Hocking Ave., Chilliwack, on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 1:00 p.m., followed by a reception from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Live Stream Link: https://www.legacystreaming.com/dignity-chilliwack/