Richard Bates

Richard J. Bates, 67, of Locust Street, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 1, 2015 at his residence with family by his side.

Born on May 31, 1947, in New Berlin, NY, Richard was the son of Warren H. and Elizabeth (Jilson) Bates. On June 29, 1969, in Beaver Meadow, NY, Richard married his wife of 46 years, Christine Wellman, who survives.

Richard enjoyed playing music on his beloved guitars, and enjoyed fishing and spending time with his large, extended family. He also found pleasure working as a private lawnmower mechanic in this spare time. For most of his working years, Richard was a clerk at various local grocery stores, including the Grand Union and the A&P.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by sisters Shirley Lamoreaux, of Norwich, and Ellen Morrison, of Southern Pines, NC, and brothers Milton and William J. Bates, both of Utica, Warren Bates Jr., of Norwich, and Clarence Bates, Sr., of Florida. Eighty-seven nieces and nephews also survive.

A private graveside service will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours.

Contributions in memory of Richard may be made to Chenango County SPCA, 6160 County Road 32, Norwich, NY 13815, or to a charity of choice.