John Bates

It is with great sadness that the family of John Bates announces his passing, on January 30, 2025, the age of 96.

Left to mourn his passing are his loving wife and partner of 67 years, Dorothy; children Christine, Joanne (Tom), and Karen (Bryan); grandchildren, Jacqueline (Blair), Caralynn (James), Cameron (Lauren), Matthew (Rachel), Alyssa and Michael; great-grandchildren, Tobias, Payton, Rowan, Weston and Linken; niece Kerri; and extended family and dear friends.

John was born in Stoke-on-Trent, England. He proudly served in the RAF as an airplane mechanic. He then came to Canada in his 20s with a good friend, Ben Thompson, to start a new life. John worked hard and held many jobs. Most of his education was self-taught, and he was always working with precision on machinery. His plastic injection moulds were used on many packaging assembly lines. One of his fondest career accomplishments was his role in the move of a large bridge in Downtown Toronto while working for Lackie Brothers.

He met the love of his life, Dorothy, at one of his jobs with DRML in Downsview. They married and went on to have three children.

John was a talented artist. He sketched pictures with ease and gave all his daughters framed pictures as keepsakes. After retirement, John and Dorothy moved to Muskoka, where John became active in the community as a golf member and curler. His claim to fame was an eight-ender, which his curling team achieved in one season. His other retirement passion was gardening; he was well-known in the neighbourhood for keeping a beautiful garden. He loved plants and was always puttering in the soil. He often remarked that he never could have imagined having such a beautiful home in Muskoka. He was very grateful.

When the time came to move to a retirement home, John and Dorothy picked one in
Barrie, which was central to the children. The staff at the Waterford always had a kind
word for John.

He loved classical music, and in his last days, it was that music that soothed him.

During the past 11 months, he had been a resident of Grove Park Long-Term Care Facility. The staff there are some of the best in the business, and were always caring, cheerful and helpful. They made his last days good ones.

At his request, there will not be a service. Dad will be cremated, and his ashes will be combined
with our mom’s upon her passing. Then, we will spread their ashes according to their
wishes.

To best remember John/Dad, please raise a glass to him (his drink was scotch) and toast
his good, long life. Words of condolence may be left for the family at www.peacefultransition.ca

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