In Memory of Willie Bates

In Memory of
Willis (Willie) Edward Bates

Willis (Willie) Bates
May 23, 1921 to May 23, 2003

Born in McKean, Pa , son of the late Manley and Ethel Wright Bates. Willie drove truck and worked at various outdoor jobs. He and wife Catherine lived in McKean, Pa until heading west to warmer weather in Apache Junction, Arizona where they settled for 30 years. He was preceded in death by a sister, Nellie Mitchell. Survivors include his wife, Catherine Wolf Bates, two sisters, Lavina Barcio of Erie and Bertha "Toots" Robinson of Wes Hills, California and several nieces and nephews. The Apache Junction Mortuary on Old West Highway arranged his last wishes.

As the sun shines on this desert view, we remember Willie and his love for the southwest. As his ashes are tossed in the wind, so let his spirit soar.

This page is dedicated to his life and his memories with us.

Willie built his home in this desert, no electricity, no water. Just him and Kate and the coyotes.

They traveled to town for groceries and WATER.

But each time it rained, Willie would have these barrels full of rainwater. And you thought it never rained in Arizona?

Each May we celebrate Willie's birthday and remember happy times.

In Memory of Willie Bates 5/23/03

During the Holiday season, we think of Willie, no longer in pain and watching us as we shovel the "white stuff" he and his good friend "Clarence" avoided as much as they could. Together they grin as they laugh at us and remember happy times. We add Willie's family in our prayers this season.