Donald R. Bates

Donald R. Bates, 76, of Greenwood Avenue, passed away Monday afternoon at his home with his loving family at his side. Born in Gloversville on May 10, 1929, the son of Jay W. and Trillis Baumgartel Bates. Living in Amsterdam for many years, he worked as a vending technician for Pepsi Cola in Albany before he retired in 1991. During the Korean War, he served with the US Air Force here in the states as well as England, being discharged in 1955. Don enjoyed spending time with his family at the Sacandaga Lake and also wintering in Fort Meyers Florida. He was a member of St. Luke?s Evangelical Lutheran Church. On May 9, 1948 he was united in marriage to the former Jean M. Stark. In addition to his wife of fifty seven years, Don leaves his daughter, Melinda and her husband Robert VanPatten of Mayfield; his grandchildren, Zachary, Cody and Crystal VanPatten; a brother, Herbert and his wife Dolores Bates of Clifton Park; as well as his special pets, Andy and Molly; nieces, nephews and cousins. A memorial service will take place Thursday evening at 7:00 pm at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue with the Rev. John Califano officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to attend and may call one hour prior to the service, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Those who wish, may make a contribution in his memory to St. Mary?s Hospital Foundation, 427 Guy Park Avenue, Amsterdam, 12010 or to Community Hospice of Amsterdam, 246 Manny?s Corners Rd. Amsterdam 12010. The family is grateful to both institutions for the care Don received.