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Richard A. “Dick” Bates                  Send flowers

Services: Thursday June 11, 2026 at 12:00 noon at the Green Camp United Methodist Church Add to Google Calendar

Visitation: Friends may call two hours prior at the church in Green Camp

Richard A. “Dick” Bates, 83 of Marion, died Tuesday May 12, 2026 at the Marion General Hospital. He was born April 19, 1943 in Marion to the late G. William and Ruth E. (Millisor) Bates. He was also preceded in death by siblings, Bill (Sandra) Bates and Phyllis Bish. Dick was a 1961 graduate of the Green Camp High School. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He dedicated 36 years of service as a lineman and line foreman with Ohio Edison, where he formed lifelong friendships with coworkers who became like family. Their bond remained strong through the years, and many stayed by his side until the end, visiting him regularly even after he was no longer able to enjoy their longtime traditions of breakfast gatherings and card games. He rarely missed his kid’s school events and spent countless hours volunteering with the Elgin Athletic Boosters and supporting the girls’ basketball program even after his own children were grown. A talented athlete himself, he was a unanimous All-County basketball player at Green Camp High School and scored more than 1,000 career points—an accomplishment he carried with quiet humility. He had a lifelong love of the outdoors and especially enjoyed fishing trips to Canada with close friends, his son Mark, and his brother Bill. Those trips produced many cherished memories and plenty of stories. Together, Dick and his wife Barb spent many happy years camping with family and friends. Their love of travel led them to all 50 states and on numerous cruises, with Dick especially enjoying river cruises and the journey through the Panama Canal. He also treasured his winters in Florida, where he spent his time golfing and fishing. Dick loved entertaining and was happiest when hosting neighbors and friends for cookouts, dinners, and cocktails. He also enjoyed dining out with friends and took great pleasure in sharing his favorite local spots with those who came to visit. He was surrounded by lots of friends and had the ability to make people laugh in almost any situation. In quieter moments, he enjoyed reading and spending time on his iPad. Above all, he was devoted to his family. He was especially proud of his granddaughters, Meredith and Evelyn, and loved hearing about their accomplishments, playing board games with them, and taking them out for breakfast or lunch. He will be remembered for his friendship, sense of humor, and deep love for his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Surviving is his wife, Barbara J. (Hedges) Bates of Marion. Their children, Amy Bates of Davenport, Florida and Mark (Elizabeth) Bates of Marietta, Georgia. Grandchildren, Meredith and Evelyn Bates Memorial services will be held Thursday June 11, 2026 at 12:00 noon at the Green Camp United Methodist Church. Lunch will be served at the church following the service, everyone is welcome and encouraged to stay for the meal. Family friend, Pastor Jerry Kalb will officiate. Friends may call two hours prior at the church in Green Camp. Private burial will take place in the Marion Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 and or Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306. The Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com Directions to Marion Cemetery Directions to Green Camp United Methodist Church  (website) Florist Login

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Condolences       to #1 from: Mandy Stover Gillespie , Betty Bates Stover Sidney Thu, May 14, 2026 at 10:48 AM Barbara, Amy and Mark.  Thinking of you with Dick's passing. He is no longer suffering and is whole once more. #2 from: David Clunk US Thu, May 14, 2026 at 4:21 PM Dear Barb and family, I’m so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. Many fond memories of you and Dick at Green Camp Methodist church, and all the basketball games through the years. My sincere condolences to you and your family! 🙏🙏🙏. With Sympathy, Dave Clunk #3 from: Dave and Deb Tevis Clayton Marion, Ohio Thu, May 14, 2026 at 7:23 PM Barb and Families... We are sorry to hear of Dick's passing. He will be missed by many family and friends. Dick was very blessed to have had such a full career and life. Sending you strength and prayers as you celebrate his life. ❤️ Dave & Deb Clayton #4 from: Dorothy Tackett Marion Fri, May 15, 2026 at 11:23 AM So sorry for your loss. You all shared memories of Green Camp and donated you time to help others. Thoughts and prayers  for you all. #5 from: Mary y. Lee Marion Fri, May 15, 2026 at 5:53 PM I send my sincere sympathy to the family of Dick Bates in his passing. We were neighbors but unfortunately never really got acquainted.  It sounds as though he lived life to its fullest, and now is at peace.

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