James E. Bates Sr. 1935-2024

Jim was born Oct. 29, 1935, in Jewett, a son of the late William and Aida Bates.

He graduated from Jewett High School.

In his younger years, he began working in a car garage changing tires. He proudly worked at the railroad as a telegraph operator before working as a production supervisor at Packard Electric. After retirement, he worked at McFarland Funeral Homes in Warren for 15 years.

As a car guy, he collected antique Fords to restore, show and sell, and kept many. He was a member of the Ford V-8 club. He loved to travel, whether on vacation or cruises and wintered in Florida for 30 years. He enjoyed being outside working on his yard and going to car shows. He also loved his sports and was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. Most of all he loved spending time with his family.

Jim will be deeply missed by his loving children, James E. Bates Jr., Kathryn Sue (Art) Bowker, Roslyn (Ted) Hart and Shanda (John) Gates; grandchildren, Morgan Hart, Deidra (Gabe) Hart-Hoffman, Stephanie (Mark) Burlison, Mark Bowker, Christopher (Tami) Shafer, Melia (Jerry) Roth, Sesha (Grayson) Clayton, Ashley (Jason) Miranda and Andrea (Greg) Hall; 19 great-grandchildren; sister, Ruth Wells; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Jo Bates, whom he married on April 11, 1969; son, Clinton “Jim” Shafer Jr.; sister, Linda Hamilton; and great-granddaughter, Alex Shafer.

Family and friends may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, at Lane Family Funeral Homes, Roberts-Clark Chapel, located at 180 Garfield Drive NE, Warren. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m.

Burial will take place in Howland Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Howland Community Church in Jim’s memory.

Family and friends may send their heartfelt condolences by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.

(special notice)