William J. Bates USN Capt. Ret.

He was born on May 26, 1916, in Woodlawn, PA, to Grover and Gwendolyn Bates.

William was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Betty Lou Hogan; and a brother, Jack E. Bates.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dottie; a son, Dr. Scott Bates and wife Cindy; a daughter, Debbie Barnett; a sister, Margie Helm and husband Jim; a sister-in-law, Mary Bates; 4 grandchildren, Blake Barnett, Jamie Middleton and husband, Lath, Katy Barnett, and Lauren Bates; 2 great-grandchildren, Maddie Middleton and Layton Middleton; and numerous nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.

Bill attended Ohio University completing a B.A. in Business Administration. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, achieving the rank of Captain. His command ship was sunk in the Pacific, after which he received high honors and leadership medals for minimal loss of his crew.

After the war he married and honeymooned to Dallas, Texas where he began his 25 year career with Sears. During that tenure he moved to San Antonio to develop and oversee the opening of the Central Park store.

Upon his retirement in 1973, with his love for the Hill Country, he established "The Old Farm Ranch" in Comfort, Texas. This country home became center stage for family and friends to gather for celebrations, holidays, and reunions for many years.

He will be remembered as a man of character who had high expectations for others and of himself.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Capt. William J. Bates name to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, which benefits servicemen and women injured overseas.