Bobby Lee Bates

Bobby Lee Bates- 59, of Las Cruces NM passed away on Dec. 27, 2016 at UMC El Paso from head injuries he sustained when he was hit on his motorcycle on Dec. 15, 2016. Bobby was born in Anderson IN, on January 17, 1957. He is survived by his parents Laura June Pettigrew of Pendleton IN and Robert A. Bates of Ooltewah TN.; 3 children, Joshua Lee, Jessica Lynn and Jillian Lauren Bates; 3 grandchildren, Julissa Bates, Evan Pomephimkham and Nicholas Fonseca all of California. His sister Christy Collis of Pendleton IN, his Fiancé Patricia Martinez and many uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews. Bobby graduated from Highland High School in Anderson IN in 1975 where he proudly played the trumpet in the band and enjoyed diving on the Dolphin Club diving team. Bobby worked at Dimar Systems in Las Cruces for 16 years where he was a foreman. He received his Pipefitter Certification in 1999. He loved his trade and was always willing to show co-workers what he knew about Fire sprinklers, pipefitting and all that his trade involved. He was also a member of Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 4038. Bobby loved the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, going to the movies but his true passion was riding his motorcycles, especially his 2004 Big Dog Chopper. Memorial service will be held on January 21, 2017 at the Fraternal Order of the Eagles at 980 N. 17th street, Las Cruces NM from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.