Bernard “Bernie” Bates, 92 of West Mansfield, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Born May 10, 1928, in West Mansfield, he was the son of the late J. Wilbur and Ruth (Watts) Bates. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Inez Brannon.
A 1946 graduate of West Mansfield High School, Bernie was a lifelong farmer in Logan County. Later in life, he found one of his other loves, golf. It could be said, that farming was his occupation and golfing was his avocation. During his retirement years, he and Donna enjoyed spending the winters in Ft. Myers, Fla., and allowing him some more time on the golf course.
He was a member of the West Mansfield United Methodist Church and the West Mansfield Lions Club, where he served as past president.
On March 23, 1952, in West Mansfield at the United Methodist Church, he married his wife of over 68 years, Donna (Yoho) Bates and she survives in West Mansfield. Also surviving are his children, Steve (Darlene) Bates and Scott (Linda) Bates, both of West Mansfield, Sondra (Lori Matassa) Bates of Phoeniz, Ariz.; grandchildren, Brandy (Jay) Liles, Bridget Smith, Brad (Mikki) Bates, Brian (Chaya) Bates, John (Jamie) Bates, Emily (Derrick) Pena` and Holly (Nick) Mays; 19 great grandchildren and a great-great grandchild.
Friends may call from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at the West Mansfield United Methodist Church, 212 E. Center St., West Mansfield, where funeral services will follow at 5 p.m. Masks are encouraged at the church. Reverend Doug Thompson will officiate and burial will take place at a later date in the Hathaway Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by Wilson Funeral Home, Schnurrenberger Chapel, 222 W. Center St., West Mansfield. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be given to Universal Home Health and Hospice in memory of Bernie. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilsonfuneralhomesinc.com.