Michael Joseph Bates

In Loving Memory of Michael J. Bates
March 19, 1958 - January 27, 2026

Michael J. Bates, 67, of Glendale, Arizona, passed away on January 27, 2026. Born on March 19, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio. Michael's life was defined by excellence, determination, innovation, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.

In 1971, Michael moved with his family to Arizona, where his remarkable journey truly began. A proud graduate of Apollo High School, Class of 1976, he left an indelible mark as one of the most accomplished athletes in the school's history. That same year, he was the winning pitcher for the Apollo Hawks in the Arizona State Championship, as well as the MVP of the Sanderson Ford American Legion summer tournament and earned the extraordinary distinction of All-State and All-American honors. In recognition of his exceptional achievements and lasting legacy, he was inducted into the Apollo High School Hall of Fame in 2015.

Michael continued his education at Phoenix College, earning his Associate of Arts degree, and later received his Business Administration degree from Northern Arizona University. His athletic prowess extended beyond high school. Remarkably, he remains the only player ever drafted three times in the first round by Major League Baseball, selected a total of four times by the San Francisco Giants (twice), the Kansas City Royals, and the Cleveland Indians.

Beyond baseball, Michael achieved international acclaim in the world of soft-tip darts. A five-time world champion, he reached a worldwide ranking of No. 2 in 1991 and proudly represented Team USA from 1996 to 1998. In 1991, he founded the AZ Masters Dart League, which continues to thrive 35 years later as the nation's premier league and recently began its 100th season. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to establish Dart Master in 1991, where he successfully designed and manufactured high-quality dart cases and tips cherished by players around the world.

Professionally, Michael was an accomplished Plastic Engineer, contributing to more than 500 patents over the course of his career—a testament to his sharp mind and innovative spirit.

In March 2008, Michael opened Bull Shooters, a beloved billiards and dart establishment that quickly became more than a business—it became a community. Through its doors passed friends, competitors, and countless individuals whose lives were enriched by Michael's generosity, mentorship, and larger-than-life presence.

Above all, Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Julie; his son Andrew (Stephanie); daughters Jamie and Brooke; cherished grandchildren Tanner, Tyler, and Ravenna; his sister Jane (Bates) Scherbing (Rik); and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends across the globe. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice (Kuty) Bates; his father, Joseph Bates; and his sister, Denise (Bates) Barton.

Michael's generosity and loyalty were second to none. His competitive spirit was matched only by his kindness, and his legacy will live on not only in record books and championships, but in the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services will be held on March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Pure Heart Church, 14240 N. 43rd Avenue, Building 700, Glendale, Arizona 85306. A reception will follow at Bull Shooters, 3337 W. Peoria Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85029, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Michael's extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, the Michael J. Bates Memorial Scholarship has been established to provide high school athletes the opportunity to compete at the next level—honoring Michael's lifelong passion for sports and his commitment to helping others achieve their dreams.

https://az-glendaleunion-lite.intouchreceipting.com/MichaeljBatesscholarship