John N. Bates passed away September 15, 2015, at the age of 79, surrounded by family. He was born in Lansing, Michigan on March 6, 1936, the son of Willard and Mildred (Keyes) Bates. He married Sharon Lancour on September 3, 1960 in Trenary, Michigan. John worked for 30 years as a carpenter for the Lansing School District.
John is survived by his wife, Sharon; sons, Timothy (Jennifer) of Winston-Salem, NC and Thomas (Cynthia) of St. Johns; grandchildren Tim, Jr, Ryan, Mike and Dan Bates, Chris and Whitney Wilson, Tyler and Lauren Bates; sister, Lynne Parks; brothers, Jerry, Kevin (Lily) and Randy Bates; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Kim Bates.
A Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 pm on Friday, September 18 at Maple Rapids United Methodist Church, 330 South Maple Street, Maple Rapids, MI. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. The family would like to express a very special thank you to all of the caring staff at The Laurels of Fulton. They went above and beyond what was expected and treated John like family. Those planning on an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to The Laurels of Fulton, 4735 Ranger Road, Perrinton, MI 48871.
The family is being served by the Osgood Funeral Homes.
Obituaries 
September 17, 2015 at 2:26 pm
I personally never met John, but through his loving family members I have only heard kind words spoken about him. What a wonderful, loving Father and Grandfather he was. I pray for his family to find comfort in the life he lead and that he is now in a better place.
September 17, 2015 at 3:34 pm
I was able to be around John, & his family, in his latter years. He was a very thoughful, & caring individual. You could tell, after just a short time with him, He cared for his family deeply! Once on a trip to Michigan, he, & his entire family treated me like family. I pray & hope that his family finds comfort, that he is in a palce where he suffers no more. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family during this difficult of all times !!!
September 18, 2015 at 4:28 am
I never met John but was fortunate to meet his son Tim and his children and of course my dear friend Jennifer,sending hugs and prayers to you all!!