Frederick Lewis Bates

Dear Audry, Sam, Judy, Danny, Dale, Gail, Steve and Joe,

News spreads fast, but this was certainly not the news that anyone ever wants to get. Our family was so sorry to hear about Fred's death. We can only imagine how difficult this time is for each one of you.

Thankfully, Jehovah has a much better purpose in mind for all of us than what we are now experiencing. Perhaps Job said it best, when he asked at Job 14:14, "If an able-bodied man dies can he live again?" Job knew...

Bates Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. He was such a good brother...surely loved by Jehovah. I know we all look forward to seeing him in the new system.

To the wife and family of Brother Bates: My wife and I are very sorry for your loss and we hope and know that Jehovah will provide for you the strength and comfort through his wonderful promises found in the Bible, his Holy Spirit, and the congregation. My wife and I only met Brother Bates a couple of times, but right away we could feel and see his love for the whole association of brothers, and for Jehovah. We didn't have the privelege of being in the same congregation, but our family did,...

Dear Bates Family,
We have been thinking of you every day, every moment, since we heard of Fred's passing. We know this is a very difficult time for all of you but we are comforted to know that you are holding on to each other and to your faith and that you are together as a family. Please know that we love you very much. And Dear Audrey, may the memories of more than 60 years of marriage and the blessing of your seven children who all surround you now bring you comfort and courage as you...

To the Bates family,

Tami and I was so sorry to hear about Fred. He was a wonderful Brother for whom we were fortunate to have known. It was plain to see that he always put his love for his creator first in his life and second to his love and faith in Jehovah God, came his love for his family. Fred always had a kind thought to say about everyone that cross his path. If you never knew Fred, all you have to do is look at his children, all of whom he raise to love Jehovah as well. ...

My first memories of Fred Bates exceed 40 years. My family attended the 'book study' that he conducted in his home, and what teaching skill it took to make the "Babylon" book interesting and understandable to my teenage mind! In my eyes he has always been a formidable example of one who has given priority to Jehovah's service. And while I was greatly saddened by the news of his death because of the loss to those dear to him, I also felt a sense of happiness and admiration because by his...

Sending our love and prayers to the Bates Family. The loss of Brother Bates is like a library closing. He and his family have always been a part of our family's lives. We have been privileged to be in the same congregation a few times and he served Jehovah loyally. His comments were always upbuilding as well as his many experiences of he and Audrey helping so many to learn to love Jehovah. He touched so many lives. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and look forward to seeing...

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.