Anne Marie Bates

Anne Marie Braamse was born in Muskegon and grew up on her parents' farm in Coopersville. When she was only 9 years old, Anne's 'Daddy', Hugh (Jack) Braamse, passed suddenly. The lasting pain of Jack's death was softened by the close bonds Anne had with her mother, Goldie, and her sisters Jackie & Nancy. As a young adult, 'life' again changed Anne's path, as she married and welcomed her son, Adam. Anne was a dedicated and loving mother. She and Adam were blessed to have unwavering love and support from Goldie, Jackie and Nancy.

As Adam entered school, Anne went to work, including at American Seating Company, where she would eventually meet, fall for, and marry Randy Bates, of Comstock Park. Randy's children – Steve and Brandy – became part of Anne's new, expanded family. She and Randy parented as a team, providing equal love and guidance to their 3 kids. During many of their nearly 50 years together, Anne & Randy enjoyed being lakeshore area 'boat people', where they entertained their grandkids and made quick friends among their marina neighbors.

Like many people, Anne retired in the time of Covid. Though there weren't enough years in retirement, Anne always seemed content – and even comforted – within daily routines. She was a great cook and wonderful baker! Most family members would petition Anne – months in advance of the holidays – for their favorite desserts.

Anne is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Goldie & Jack (Randy and Adam have instructions to spread Anne's ashes on their graves in Coopersville, after dining on a commemorative Fricano's pizza). Anne's passing will leave heavy hearts among family & friends. Her smile and gentleness will be missed by Randy; Adam Kelly (fiancée, Manifa Dennison); Steve (Rebecca) Bates, & Brandy Mason; sisters, Jackie (Ron) Bogema and Nancy (Scott) Bradley; sister-in-law, Jill (Wally) Shangle; grandchildren, Morgan & Logan Bates, Gavin Kelly, and Noah Mason; nieces, Wendy (Scott) Todd, Rebecca Cisek, Jessica (Tom) Chase, Lauren (Jon) DeVol, & Marlee Bogema; and nephew, Ben (Andrea) Bradley; as well as grand-niece, Taylor (Connor) Wuori; and Randy's cousins, Gary Andree and Barb (Terry) Verlin.

Many thanks to dear friends who visited and comforted Anne in the final weeks.

A December Memorial will be held for family, and a broader celebration of Anne's life will take place in early 2026, at the Casino Club in Grand Rapids.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Corewell Health Hospice, whose wonderful staff took great care of Anne.