William Lee "Bill" Bates

William Lee "Bill" Bates, age 85 of Marion, passed away on Friday November 7, 2025 at The Meadows of Marion surrounded by family, friends and the caring staff of Tranquility Hospice and The Meadows.
Bill entered this world on October 10, 1940 in Marion, OH to the late Gerald W. and Ruth E. (Millisor) Bates. Bill received his education from Green Camp High School and graduated with the class of 1959. After school, Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves. On August 29, 1969, he married Sandy Kay Huntsman, who preceded him in death.
Bill worked for over 40 years at Todco Overhead Door, spending most of those years as a supervisor. During his working years, Bill operated a home business subcontracting for Central Machine. During these many years, he employed over 100 local teenagers, setting an example of hard work and mentoring them in many different aspects of life. Bill reminisced about many of those kids and often laughed at some of the stories from those days.
Bill enjoyed supporting the Ridgedale High School sports teams over the years and attended many of their events. He supported MARCA as well as other local organizations. He attended the Green Camp United Methodist Church for many years. He liked fishing and anything that allowed him to be outdoors.
He also enjoyed his farm and being a part of the local farm community. In more recent years he always looked forward to going to Al's Country Market in Big Island and having coffee with his close friend Clyde Sappington, who recently preceded him in death, and a handful of the local farmers.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Lisa of Marion, OH; his brother Richard (Barbara) Bates of Marion, OH; his Aunt Betty Stover of Marion, OH, and several nieces and nephews. Bill is also survived by close family friends Jody and Karen Hunt.
In addition to his wife, Bill was preceded in death by his sister Phyllis Ann Bish-Lyons, his parents, and his mother-in-law Louise Huntsman.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tranquility Hospice (1949 State Route 37 W, Suite C, Delaware, OH 43015) and Wings of an Angel (2813 Gooding Road, Marion, OH, 43302).
Visitation will be held 10AM-11AM; Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Snyder Funeral Homes, Denzer Chapel; 360 E. Center St., Marion, Ohio 43302. Funeral Ceremony will follow at 11AM with Pastor Josh Freshour and Pastor Romy, officiating. Immediately following the Graveside Service will be held at Marion Cemetery.
Following services, a meal will be served at Green Camp United Methodist Church; 205 Broadway St, Box 232, Green Camp, Ohio 43322.
Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion are honored to serve Bill's family and online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com