Thomas Richard Bates

My deepest condolences to Helen and the family. I feel blessed to have worked with such a terrific person, great mentor, and the best colleague one could ever wish for. Tom touched many lives with his boundless energy, caring nature, and cheerful personality. He will always hold a special place in my heart.

Dr Tom has been a part of our tennis family as long as o can remember. He spoke at my dad Gus Roess´s funeral and we spent many hours watching our parents play tennis together. I´m very thankful for having the Bates clan in our family. Much love. Suzanne R. Barnes, AIA

My deepest sympathy to his family. Dr. Bates is the obituary of a true disciple. May God Bless his soul and grant him eternal rest and peace. May God Bless and grant comfort to his family. IDignity volunteers will miss him dearly.

Tom was a remarkable man. I was fortunate enough to be a member of a Bible study that met at the Bates home many years ago now. He never failed to greet me by name, wish me happy birthday or acknowledge me for years afterward. He made me feel happy just to see him smiling in his pew or processing with the choir. While St. Luke´s has lost a little sunshine with Tom´s loss, Heaven has gained a beautiful soul. Selah, Tom.

Tom was a shipmate, my opthamologist, "Y" buddy, and good friend. He will be missed.

We had some wonderful times together. We'll miss you Tom, both on and off the tennis court! John and Letty Hurst

Dear Family, During this difficult time I know the kind words, the outpouring of love and respect for your loved one has been a wellspring of comfort. All well deserved for such a man as Dr. Bates. I also know that you can rest in the promises of God, that because of his faith, Dr Bates is with the Lord and Savior he loved, obeyed and honored during his earthly journey. May God bless you and yours in the days ahead.

May God be with the Bates family during this time of deep sorrow. Commendations on your contributions to your community. As far as your honorable as brave Vietnam War Service, "welcome Home".

So very sad to learn of Tom's passing. The Orlando medical community has lost one it's finest physicians and people, and one whom I personally most admired. Tom and I shared dozens of patients over many years, and one thing that always impressed me was the admiration, respect and love each and every one of them had for this "giant" of ophthalmology. Our deepest condolences to Helen and family