James E. Bates Sr.

James Ervin Bates, Sr. died on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 in Tawas City, after a brief but brave battle with lung cancer. He was 74. Jim was born in Bay City, September 11, 1942, to the late Edward Sr. and Alice (Chambers) Bates. He spent much of his life there, but also lived in Nevada, Texas, California, and Colorado, before returning to Michigan. Jim loved the outdoors, fishing, and working in the tree cutting business with his father, Edward, until his death in 2001. When he wasn't enjoying a bit of fun at Saganing Casino in Standish, his favorite pastime was grilling out on a charcoal grill. To him, you just couldn't get good flavor from a gas grill. Neighbors will also remember Jim's rummage sales as well as his passion for fixing up and repairing broken items, so they could be enjoyed again. He truly was a jack of all trades, including auto mechanics. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Debra; children, James (Laurie) Bates, Lisa (Chris) Lombardo, Daniel Bates, Joshua Bates, Jeremiah Bates, Jason Bates; 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; his adopted daughter, Patti; siblings, Sandra LaRose, Edward Bates III, Ray (Brenda) Bates, Barbara (Dan) Gromaski, Pat (Mike) Gordon and Sandra Rulason; his good friend, B.C., and many nieces and nephews. Additionally, he is survived by sisters in law, Dorthy and Toni, and brothers in law, Johnny, Billy and Ronald. Jim was preceded in death by his son, Johnny. A celebration of Jim's life will be held, during a Memorial Dinner, at the St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 206 Scheurmann St, Essexville, Michigan on Friday, January 6, 2017 at 1pm. The Rev. Eric A. Stone officiating. The family would like to thank Iosco County Medical Care Facility, its staff and all of his aides and his therapist. The family would also like to thank the Reverence Hospice Team for their wonderful care. In lieu of floral arrangements, please consider donating to the family to help cover Jim's final expenses, or you can donate to St. Luke's UMC of Essexville.