Michael William Bates, 57, of Benton Harbor, MI passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 15, 2016. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends and neighbors.
Michael was born on September 22, 1958 in Dowagiac, MI to the late William and Lois (Teegardin) Bates. Michael worked proudly as a petroleum tanker driver for a variety of companies before retiring. He had many interests including – Honda Mini Trails and Three-wheelers, at one time having as many as 189. He enjoyed canoeing, rafting, camping and bonfires with family and friends. Seeking and finding mushrooms brought him great joy. Michael was an avid animal lover, especially his companion Angus. He enjoyed being a self-appointed community watch person. Michael was a great cook and showed his love to his family and friends by hosting Sunday dinners around the table as well as cooking for camp and special occasions.
Michael is survived by his wife of 29 years Lori Sue (Swedenberg) Bates; his children – Evan of St. Joseph, Bailey (Mike) Lomoro of Berrien Springs and Bryce of Benton Harbor; two grandchildren – Mikey Lomoro and Devon Tomsheck; sisters – Marian Louise (Ronald) Spann of Gainesville, FL and Patricia (Philip) Katzenberger of Kissimmee, FL; grandmother – Barbara Hutchins-Stone; father-in-law – Robert Swedenberg; mother-in-law – Gloria Swedenberg; aunts – Carol Bostater and Delores Hutchins; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A time to celebrate Michael’s life will be on Sat., April 23, from 5:00 P.M. until the bonfire ends, with a small service at 7:00 P.M. at the Bates residence in Benton Harbor. Michael’s family has requested that memorial contributions may be made to the American Chronic Pain Association, P.O. Box 850, Rocklin, CA 95677 or online at theacpa.org Friends wishing to leave the family a message of condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI.