Michael E. Bates

Michael E. Bates, 67, of Battle Creek, died January 19, 2026. Michael was born in Battle Creek to Janet Bates on December 15, 1958. Mike graduated high school and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army. He loved riding his Harley and participated in many charity runs to help raise money for those in need. He was a man of faith who was committed to prayer and his relationship with the Lord. He most recently worked at Tenneco in Marshall.

Mike is survived by his son, Levi (Tiffany) Bates; his sister, Tammy Kilbourn; grandchildren, Landon, Aamira and Ian; a bonus granddaughter, Nadia; his girlfriend, Carlene Potter; two uncles, Tom (Helen) and Dave Bates and many nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Janet (Bates) Felter and two brothers, Steve Carney and Jeff Andrews.

A memorial service to celebrate Mike’s life will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Life in Christ Ministries, 14990 Beadle Lake Rd., Battle Creek, MI 49014. A light luncheon will follow. Interment with full military honors will be at Fort Custer National Cemetery and will be announced shortly. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.