David A. Bates

David Anthony Bates, 42, of Deer Park, Texas departed us on July 13, 2013. David was a Nurse by night and tattoo artist by day. He was a philosopher, a debater, a musician, an artist, a nurse, a son, a brother, UNK, and the air around his family and friends. He was the sunshine above and definitely the cheer to fill your glass, which we all had the privilege to share 42 years of life with. David was born with a larger than life personality on September 21, 1970 and was a true gift to his parents and a welcomed addition to the Bates clan. He graduated from Deer Park High School in 1989 and followed his family military tradition and Dave's free spirit brought him around the world in the Navy. He was stationed out of Japan and traveled the whole South Pacific and was a Desert Storm veteran where he was awarded the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Southeast Asia Medal with bronze star and the Navy Unit Commendation Medals. After his military service Dave found his calling in the medical industry. His inane sense to remember every molecule of a conversation served him well as he embarked into nursing school and into practice. It was definitely fitting that this big strong personality served many as an EMT and Nurse. The artist was NEVER lost in David, and if there was a scrap piece of paper or a tablet and pencil left unattended, he would sketch some of the most amazing drawings in just a matter of minutes. He also left his MARK on many of his friends and family members through his tattoos artistry. We think about all the sunshine, wind, air and life that David shared with everyone around him. Dave had a way with people and had the ability to make anyone feel like they were the most important person in the world and he never met a stranger.Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday July 19 at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church, 2921 Center St, Deer Park. Rosary will be recited at 1:00 PM Friday at the church. So when you feel the sun on your cheeks, the wind in your hair and a surreal urge to unlock the rainbow, just raise your glass to the sky and Slainte Big Dave!!