Delbert O. "Butch" Bates Jr.

Daddy,
I love you and miss you more than anyone will ever know. I imagine you sailing the clouds and riding the wind with Babe at your side. Save me a spot on your crew!
Your loving daughter,
Slick

My thoughts & prayers, along with my deepest sympathy, goes out to the Bates family. I was a 15 year old kid who followed the Phillies &I remember Del coming up to the Phillies in 1970 when their 3 catchers went out with injuries in a matter of days. Catching duties were left to Del & Doc Edwards. The crowds were thin (4,000 per game), but Del always gave a major league effort as if he were playing in front of 40,000 & was extremely nice to the fans. He had the pleasure of catching Hall...

Del Bates those of you who knew him were lucky. Del was not a man of few words. If he didnt like something or someone he would let you know. I listened to many stories and never got tired of them. Any visit to the family compound on vashon could be guarenteed a story of the docks baseball or sailing. My children were lucky to call him grandfather, I was lucky to call him a step dad and friend. So long golf buddy. We will miss you. Robyn, Jordan, courtney and Gabby (chloe too)

So long sailor, We will always remember our brave friend and workmate and the many happy years we spent together. we are so sorry Pat. Stephen and Lynne McManus

Pat and family: We will miss that "Del Smile" and his upbeat sense of humor and all the wonderful stories of how he lived each day to the fullest. Pat, it was delightful to listen to your memories of lifes experiences together and witness the fabulous union you and Del enjoyed for almost 20 years. We both feel blessed to have known Del. It is our hope that your fond memories of Del and your many adventures in the journey of life together will live on in you all to get you through this...

I am his step daughter. But Del always made me feel like I was his own daughter and his pal. I want to thank everyone for their kind words and say I'm so glad you got to know an amazing man like this!
Heather Lynn
Super Proud Step Daughter

The first thing that went through my mind was that a wonderful spark went out in the world. I loved Del's way of telling a story, and how that made for some memorable Thanksgivings!
All my love to you, Pat - you know we're here for you.
Rest peacefully, Del~
Debbie

Dear Patty & Family,
Having known Del for the short period of time that he lived in Deer Park I felt that I had known him much longer. He was a very Gentle Giant, with his lefty swing & great sense of humor. We are all blessed to have known & enjoyed the company of Del! He is missed.
Sincerely,
Burt & Nona