Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1941
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
William Bates Obituary
Apr 15, 1941 - Dec 20, 2025
Age 84, of Hamburg, entered into rest on December 20, 2025. Beloved husband of Joanne (nee Pound) Bates; devoted father of Michele (Raymond) Rutkowski, the late Robert "Bob" Bates and Tracy Bates; dear grandfather of Hannah, Raymond III, and Kristin Rutkowski; loving son of the late William and Ethel (nee Harvey) Bates; dear brother of Thomas (Diana) Bates, Victoria (David) Lalomia, Margaret (Robert) Braun, and the late Kathleen (late John) Quick. Also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends. No prior arrangements. Private interment Hillcrest Cemetery. Arrangements by Lombardo Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Memories and Condolences
for William Bates
6 Entries
Peter J. Martinelli
January 11, 2026
My condolences to Dave Lalomia on the passing of his brother-in-law.
Mike Lograsso
January 2, 2026
So sorry for your loss.
Holding on to many years of memories. Party on with all our friends.
See you when I see you again
Paul
December 30, 2025
Nice memories working with Bill...sharp guy, lived with passion.
Rest in Peace
Paul A. Tubridy
December 29, 2025
I have very fond memories with the Bates family. I learned, coached, and played hockey with Mr. Bates. Always enjoyed his warm and caring voice in any topics we shared! God Bless you Mr. Bates...
How you can show support
Rick Nowak
December 29, 2025
Great person who taught me a lot about playing hockey as a young man Truly playing hockey with Bobby again RIP Mr. Bates
Brenda Jensen
December 28, 2025
Always looked forward to working with Billy whether it was a gig or just "sitting in"- his kindness, enthusiasm and joy were always front and center. You were a pleasure to be around Bill.
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in William Bates's name
Memorial Events
for William Bates
People and places connected with William
Buffalo, NY
Buffalo News
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support William's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor William Bates's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
