Frank Bates

1931 - 2017

Frank George Bates CHARLOTTE - Frank George Bates of Charlotte, North Carolina, age 85, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 30, 2017.

Frank was born in Nottingham, England, on October 29, 1931, to George and Ethel Bates. In 1948, at the age of 16, Frank left Mundella Grammar School to work for the Trustee Savings Bank, before joining the Royal Air Force in 1950 to fulfill his duty of National Service. In 1955 Frank married Pamela Coles, also of Nottingham, and accepted the position of Salesman for Guetermann, a global sewing thread company. An enthusiastic world traveler, Frank advanced to the positions of Marketing Manager and Director, working in London, Australia, and South Africa. In 1987, he was named President of Guetermann of America, relocating his family to Charlotte in 1987. He retired in 1996, after 41 years with the company.

In retirement Frank was a keen table tennis player; an automobile and steam train enthusiast; an ardent fan of his favorite UK football team, Nottingham Forest; and a devoted father and grandfather. He loved Charlotte, but was proud to be British and in the 30 years that he lived here, never lost his English accent.

Frank was preceded in death by Pamela, his wife of 40 years, and by his sister, Margaret Bates. Frank is survived by his three daughters: Fiona Wilkinson and husband, Mark, of Bagshot, England; Elaine Roberts and husband, Rick, of Charlotte NC; Carolyn (Carrie) Hastings and husband, Mike, of Atlanta GA; his grandchildren Courtney and Jacob Roberts; and nieces and nephews in England.

Frank enjoyed life, thrived on solving challenges, had an excellent business mind and happily shared his thoughts and experiences with others. He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him.

A service was held on May 7, at McEwen Funeral Home in Pineville for family and close friends. His ashes will be laid to rest on the family grave in Nottingham, England. Donations in memory of Frank will be gratefully accepted by the Greater Charlotte Harris YMCA Equity Fund, in support of its mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate in youth sports, including soccer.