William E Bates

Born in East Canton, William lived most of his life in the Akron/Canton area. He was particularly proud of his service with the U.S. Army, both in active duty and the reserves. After a lengthy tenure, William retired from the Ford Motor Company in 2003. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, armchair coaching, playing cards and tinkering in his workshop.

William is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Lenda Ruth; son, Darryle (Kimberly); two grandchildren, Hayden and Rachel; brothers, Glenn (Dorothy) and Earl (Jean); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Laura Belle Bates; and brother, Bob.

The family would like to acknowledge the special care he received over the past year and a half from the staff at Longmeadow Care Center in Ravenna.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, January 8, 12 noon at the Catavolos Funeral Home 3653 W. Market St., Fairlawn, where family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until time of service. Interment will be Monday, January 10, 11:30 a.m. at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, where William will receive full military honors.