Gerald Bates

TRAVERSE CITY — Gerald Godfrey Bates, 99, passed away peacefully Monday, Oct. 18, 2010, at Munson Medical Center with his family by his side. Born March 1, 1911, in Almira Township, he was a son of the late Lloyd and Athalinda (Fewins) Bates and was a lifelong resident of Benzie and Grand Traverse counties. He graduated from Honor High School in 1930 and attended the school's latest reunion, his 80th, in September 2010. A proud veteran, Gerald served his country as a Tec Sergeant with the United States Army in World War II. Upon discharge he worked a period of time as a farmer at the Traverse City State Hospital.On Sept. 21, 1946, he married the former IvaBelle Kevwitch at First Congregational Church with Dr. Howard Towne officiating.Gerald was a longtime devoted farmer in Long Lake Township, retiring to their home on Long Lake in 1991. He served as a trustee on the Board of Long Lake Township from 1974-1980, was co-author of the Long Lake Township's first Master Plan in 1977, served on the Board of Review for six years and was honored as The Citizen of the Year in 1990. He also served a number of years on the Soil Conservation District Board for the area and was a longtime member of the Farm Bureau. Gerald was a life member of the Eagles, a member of First Congregational Church, a member of the American Legion Post 35, The Traverse City Golf and Country Club, the Almira Township Historical Society and the Great Lakes John Deere Two Cylinder Club.He enjoyed playing euchre and was an avid reader. Jerry was a well-respected, strong, but humble community representative.He will be greatly missed by his devoted family and fondly remembered by his numerous nieces and nephews. Gerald is survived by his wife of 64 years, Iva; sisters, Harriet Gauthier, of Cedar, and Jean Skipski, of Traverse City, along with many nieces and nephews.In addition to his parents, Gerald was precededed in death by his brothers, Fred, Douglas, Richard, Murray and James. Visitation will take place on Friday, Oct. 22, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, at First Congregational Church, 6105 Center Road, Traverse City, with Dr. David Walls officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, Long Lake Township.In remembrance of Gerald, memorials may be directed to First Congregational Church or the charity of your choice. Please share your memories and thoughts of Gerald with his family at his online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Gerald Bates

October 18, 2010