Haxtun-Fleming Herald, Haxtun, Colorado, August 25, 1999

GERALD R. BATES

Gerald R. Bates, 83, Haxtun, passed away on August 14, 1999.

Mr. Bates was born on July 30, 1916, in Yuma County, to Chester Arthur and Edith Merle [Clark] Bates.

Gerald lived his life in Yuma and Phillips counties. He farmed until his retirement in 1969. He moved to Haxtun with his brother, Milo Bates, following his retirement.

He loved to fish and hunt. He also loved music, played in a band and entertained residents in nursing homes. He continued playing until he could no longer hear if his banjo, guitar or violin were in tune.

Gerald is survived by a brother, Milo C. Bates, Haxtun; a sister, Wilma Sawyer and husband George, Grand Junction; and a cousin, Evelyn Coatney, Greeley.

Funeral services were conducted on Thursday, August 19, 1999, at the Spellman-Schmidt Baucke Mortuary, Yuma, with Reverend Sam Hemphill officiating. Interment followed in the Yuma Cemetery.