LAWRENCE JAMES BATES

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LAWRENCE JAMES BATES Born February 19, 1934, passed peacefully, surrounded by family, May 9, 2015 Larry was born to Margaret and Tom Bates, the youngest of 10 children. He had a happy childhood roaming what is now the Polo Park area with his brothers. He was predeceased by his parents; son Jay Stuart Bates in 1961; sisters, Nell, Eileen and Mary, and brothers Bill, Frank, Bob, Len and Tom. He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Gerry; brother Walter of Victoria, BC; son David (Mary Ellen); daughters Laurie (Dave), Lindy and Jason; sister-in-law Jean, and many cousins nieces and nephews. Larry was a great husband, dad and an awesome grandpa to Matt (Amanda), Kathleen (Aaron), Naomi (Jordan), and Jay and Sarah. Larry was very active in his grandkid's lives attending all kinds of activities and enjoyed every moment of it. They were his pride and joy. The arrival of three great-grandchildren, Emily, Jocelyn and Jordan, was the icing on the cake. Larry attended St. Johns High School and married his high school sweetheart on October 1, 1955. The loss of their son Jay in 1961 was devastating, but life took on new meaning with the arrival of Laurie, David and Lindy. Following were many years of children's school activities, camping, travelling, weddings, babies and golfing. He joined the C.N.R. as an apprentice and retired after 38 years as a shop foreman / planner. Larry also joined the Naval Reserves (HMCS Chippewa) and retired as a CPO1 after 26 years of loyal service. He was a very proud Canadian and held in very high esteem those who served in the First World War, the Second World War and the Korean war. We thank family and friends for their care and concern during this very difficult time. Very special thank you to Dr. Pat Harris and the Oncology Department of Concordia Hospital for the 10 and a half years of special care and concern. Also special thank you to Social Worker Yvonne in Oncology, and all the wonderful staff on N1S and N1N and Dr. Pilat of Concordia Hospital. We have lost a gentleman and a gentle man who possessed great patience and understanding of others. His dry sense of humour and his corny jokes will be missed by all. His son David will miss him dearly and his father's many visits to Victoria and the many golf games they enjoyed together. "Dad keep your head down and follow through". Interment has taken place and a celebration of life will take place a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Salvation Army or a charity of your choice. Funeral Arrangements in Care of Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematorium 1800 Day Street 204-224-1525

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 16, 2015