Walter Monroe Bates, 84, of Gladstone, MO passed away February 27, 2015. Born in Topeka, Kansas, to parents, Adeline and Walter Bates. Dad spent his growing years, in Pittsburg, KS. Walter was one of six children, with one surviving sister, Bonnie Tustin, of Topeka, KS. He had two children, Brian M. Bates and Amy B. (Bates) Bonjour-Cockman. Walter was so proud of serving in the United States Marines. He served as a Deacon at Northeast Presbyterian Church. Brian married Kamela, their children are: Kalyssa Bates, Camden Bates and Shalana (Bates) Huntington. Amy is married to Robert Cockman, Sr. Amy's children are: Gabrielle Bates and Nataleanne Bonjour. Walter’s passion was singing and dancing, with singing being his first passion. He adored his grandchildren and attending their events. He was a Barbershopper for over 50 years, with the most recent membership in the Heart of America Chorus. He loved fishing and golfing, as well. Services will be 1:00pm, Friday, March 6, 2015 at White Chapel Funeral Home. Family will receive friends Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00pm. ?
