Loren Franklin Bates

Loren,

It has almost been a year since you left us, and yet you feel so close. I have been thinking about you alot lately. I can't stop wishing you were here. I wish you were here for my dad, and for my family. I wish you were still here so we could be here for you.

I am terribly sad to think of the pain you were in. Everytime I think if you or a memory of you, I try to hold on to it so tight in hopes I might actually go back to that momennt.

Thank you for the...

Happy Birthday Loren! We love you!

Saturdays Service had to have been one of the most amazing celebrations of life I have ever attended!! Sobbing to laughter for hours!! The words about and photos and video of Loren helped us deal with the loss of Mr. Bright eyes!! Charlie, you should be a minister!! Your calming composure helped all of us make it through that day! And into the night!! Thank you to the
La Fevers for hosting a wonderful Wake/Toasting party to LB!! You gave us a beautiful place to share stories and memories...

To the entire family:
I remember Loren as a baby and seeing him over the years as our parents continued the friendship they established in Ft. Rucker. I did some babysitting of "the boys", and as I recall, they were something of a handful but just all boy. I was very sad to hear of Loren's death and wish you all the best as you struggle with this loss. Reading all the notices, it is apparent Loren grew into a great young man and will be missed.

Blessings, Diana Franz Ring

The service yesterday was one of the most powerful experiences I've ever been a part of. How Loren left this earth had left alot of us feeling guilty for not connecting or reconnecting with him.I know that he would never want that and I challenge anyone who knew Loren to remember a time when he wasnt smiling. What a beautiful heart he had and what a great family. The men that stood up to give tribute to Loren did an amazing job. Charlie you deserve the very best and I wish you and your...

My Dearest Loren, I remember the times we shared when you were staying at my house. The many times we talked of family and of our work and our dreams for the future. With you, you take my little secrets. I will miss your smile and your hugs, your laughter and your jokes. I remember when I first met you and Charlie, Kevin and Lila were living just down the street and were taking care of Tara and Trina for me. You and Charlie adopted me on the spot as your sister (cause I was Lila's and...

LOREN
I will miss your hugs and encouragement. I also will miss you when I'm helping Lila and Kevin with the Big Nasty. I Love You and will see you in Heaven.
Love Twilla

Loren, none of us really know how many lives we touch. I wish you knew just how many people you reached. Your always smiling face, bright shiny eyes and positive out look were just a few qualities that we will remember you by. I hope you know just how many people loved you. God Bless You Loren.

I am so thankful to have had the chance to go out with Loren a few years ago while he was in town. It was an unforgetable night for me. Thank you SAm and Sheryl for making that happen. Loren was such a beautiful person with those gorgeous eyes and perfect smile. He was truely loved by so many and will be missed forever. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.