Morris Alfred Bates

Morris A. Bates, 84, of Bellaire, passed away on April 27, 2023, at his home.

   He was born on October 4, 1938, in Springfield Township, Kalkaska County, the son of Frederick and Florence (Perkins) Bates.

   Morris worked for the Bellaire D.P.W. for many years prior to retiring in 2004.   He also worked as a bar tender at the Bellaire Bar for several years.

   He was an avid gardener, enjoyed making homemade hot sauce, boating, fishing, playing guitar and listening to jazz music.

   Surviving are 3 children, Erik Bates (Tina Viszmeg) of Bellaire, Bill Drollinger (Patricia) of Bellaire, Kimberly Cannon of Greenville, MI, 6 grandchildren, Megan Tramlee of Lansing, Katie Slagle (Benjamin) of Bellaire, Mariah Baker of Taylor, MI, Christian Bates (Maddison) of Bellaire, Zachary Bates of Bellaire, Jonah Bates of Bellaire, 6 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his wife Sandra Knight, mother of his children Cameron Bates, 4 sisters, Isabelle Nyquist, Margy Hurlburt, Margaret McBrian, Lavona Bates and his parents.

   A Celebration of his Life will be held on Wednesday, May 24 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Shorts Brewing Company, 121 N. Bridge St., Bellaire, MI 49615.  

   Memorial contributions may be made to Bright Focus Foundation, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, MD, 20871.

   Arrangements are in care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.