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Richard Bates Obituary
Richard L. Bates
Feb. 27, 1950 - Feb. 12, 2021
HAMMOND, IN -
Richard L. Bates, age 70, passed away on Friday, February 12, 2021 surrounded by his family. Rick, as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was born on February 27, 1950 to Mary Ann Betterton and Richard L. Bates.
Rick is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Susan (nee Prokopcio); son Aaron (Marie) Bates; daughter Nicole (Daniel) Cooper; granddaughters: Kaylee, Mackenzie, and Riley Cooper, and his buddy, Rebel.
Rick was a graduate of Morton High School and attended Indiana University Northwest. He married Susan on October 8, 1971 and made his residence in Hessville, IN. He worked at Inland/Arcelor Mittal for many years and retired in February 2015. Since retiring, Rick enjoyed spending his time attending cheer and sporting events for his granddaughters and playing catch in the backyard with Rebel. He enjoyed reading, discussing politics, and watching British sitcoms. He was an intelligent, sarcastic, loving man who truly would do anything for his family and friends. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
A mass will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 7132 Arizona Ave., Hammond, IN. Rev. Charles Mosely will officiate the service. Internment of cremains to follow at St. John/St. Joseph Cemetery, Hammond. Visitation with the family will be held on Tuesday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the time of mass. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Bates
Steve Govert
March 27, 2021
I worked with Rick in withdrawal for a few years he always loved talking about his granddaughters, very sorry for your families loss.
Rich Krzekotowski
March 21, 2021
I worked at Inland many a year with Rick. I remember his love to banter, but mostly, his love for his family. My condolences to you all.
Jacque Paradis
March 3, 2021
Sue, Aaron, and Nicole,
Have been keeping your family in our prayers for a long time. We were saddened to hear about Rick and deeply saddened for your family.
Take care of each other.
Bill Bardoczi
March 2, 2021
Fortunate to have crossed paths with Rick in high school. Rest in peace.
American Heart Association
March 2, 2021
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Douglas Buehler
March 2, 2021
Thinking of Aaron, Marie and the Bates family during this difficult time of saying goodbye to a loving husband, father and friend.
MIchael Bennett
March 2, 2021
rick you were a good guy,you are gonna be missed
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