George Russell Bates

OLD TOWN - George R. Bates, 61, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012, surrounded by his family. He was born Sept. 1, 1950, in Brockton, Mass., to Russell and Olive (Fuller) Bates. George grew up in Brockton, Mass., where he graduated from Brockton High School and went on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in accountancy from Bentley College, Waltham, Mass. George began his career in Boston, holding tax management positions with William Carter Co. and Fidelity. In 1986, he relocated to the state of Maine, where he worked for Division of Community Services under the McKernan administration, transferring to Maine State Housing Authority as federal funds administrator in 1990. Upon relocation to Old Town, George worked as finance manager for Eaton, Peabody, Bradford and Veague. He left that position to start an accounting practice with his wife, which they successfully owned and operated for many years. George greatly enjoyed working in his own practice and formed friendships with many clients. George was a brilliant accountant and he always did his best for his clients. His clients were very loyal and had a great deal of respect for him, which was well deserved. At the time of George's retirement, due to illness, he was employed by Hope House. George showed tremendous courage during his illness and fought hard to live. He unselfishly continued to show concern for the needs of others ahead of himself. George is survived by his loving wife, Debbie. He is also survived by his two stepsons, whom he raised from childhood and was extremely proud of Nicholas Brandmeir and his wife, Cheryl, of Hershey, Pa., and Zachary Brandmeir and his fiancee, Stephanie Soucy, of Old Town. George was also "Papa" to Robert and Madeline Brandmeir of Hershey, Pa. Also surviving are a special sister-in-law, Jill S. King and her husband, Don King, and daughter, Stella; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Gloria and Doug Martin; brother-in-law, Snook Shorey and his wife, Kelly; and brother-in-law, Mark Shorey and his wife, Michelle. He is also survived by his best friend since childhood, Bob Anderson. George also leaves many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many close friends. George will also be greatly missed by his canine friend, Ozzie. George was predeceased by his parents; sister, Carolyn Bates Daviage; and father-in-law, William "Skip" Shorey. There will be a funeral service 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at United Baptist Church, Middle Street, Old Town. Those who wish may contribute in George's memory to The Animal Orphanage, P.O. Box 565, Orono, ME 04473. Notes of condolences may be left at www.birminghamfuneralhome.com.