JAMES EVERETT BATES – The County Press
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JAMES EVERETT BATES, 80, of North Branch, passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022, surrounded by his family at McLaren Lapeer Region. Jim was born in Flint, MI, on December 17, 1941, the son of Billie and Alice (Middleton) Bates. He grew up in the Flint area and was a student at Kearsley schools. On March 13, 1961, Jim married Sharon Harrington in Flint, MI. He worked at Buick for 30 years until his retirement in 1992. He enjoyed flea markets, where he was often a vendor, garage sales and casinos. He loved to run, he even ran in a couple of Boston Marathons. Jim and his wife, Sharon, were foster parents for many years. Jim was an amazing man who was always there for any family or friend who needed him. He had a contagious smile.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sharon; his children, Kimberly (Frank) Wheaton from North Branch, Joel Bates from California and Pamela (Ben) Bates from Mayville; his 14 grandchildren and his 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, James Bates (2018); his sister, Darlene Whitis and his brother, Billie Bates.
The family was present for visitation on Friday, January 21, 2022, 12-7 pm at Blackburn Chapel- Martin Funeral Home. On Saturday, January 22, 2022, visitation was 10-11 am at Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home with funeral service following at 11 am Pastor Robert Lott officiated. Jim was laid to rest in Westlawn Cemetery in North Branch.
You may share an online condolence to the family at www.blackburnchapel.com
Arrangements by Blackburn Chapel- Martin Funeral Home.