Michael Duane "Mike" Bates

Mike Bates passed away June 14, 2013 after a long illness with cancer. He was 66 years old. His craftsmanship was commercial and residential painting for most of his life in the Athens area. He was cared for by his life partner Jeri Ann Chasteen and good friend Wink McWhorter. Preceded in death by his parents Falco and Margaret Bates along with his sister Elaine Perry. Survived by his aunt, Katherine Haynes along with several cousins from Athens. One nephew and two nieces from Callahan, FL. Mike had many friends who cared for him: Ronnie and Debby Howard, Dennis and Tammie Gunter, Melba Gunnells, Kerry Moon, Ed Archer, Sue and Mike Rotu, Janet Thomas and Brenda Hosch. Much appreciation to his aids Mildred Howard and Kal Pope. Services will be held at Lord and Stephens, East on Lexington Road on Sunday, June 16, 2013 at 2 PM. A private burial will take place at a later date at Bates - Williams Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cornerstone Church in Athens, GA. Lord and Stephens, East is in charge of arrangements.