Joseph Patrick Bates

Joseph Patrick Bates Jr. left this world to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 11, 2007, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born Jan. 26, 1920, in Baton Rouge. He was the youngest of four children born to the union of Joseph P. and Ida Mae Betz Bates. He was educated in theEast Baton Rougepublic school system and was a graduate ofMcKinleySenior High School. He was a retired supervisor with Exxon Chemical with 40 years of service. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 9692. Visiting at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 749 East Blvd., on Saturday, April 21, from 9 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., with Monsignor Robert Berggreen, celebrant. Interment inGreenoaksMemorial Park. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mrs. Elsie Honore Bates; five daughters, Mrs. Lillian Davis and husband Earl and Mrs. Sharon Hall and husband Terry, all of Baton Rouge, Mrs. Elsie B. Gipson and Mrs. Monica B. White, both of Las Vegas, and Mrs. Rhonda Moore and husband Byron of Pittsburgh, Calif.; three sons, Joseph G. Bates of New Orleans, Dennis M. and wife Sherita Bates of Baton Rouge, and Michael P. and wife Connie Bates of Patterson, Calif.; three sons-in-law and two daughters-in-law; 20 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, a great-great-grandchild, six sisters-in-law, four brothers-in-law; numerous nieces and nephews, including an adopted niece and nephew, Linda Gulley and Leo Wiggins; and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ida Betz Bates; a daughter, Mrs. Joyce B. Porché; a brother, two sisters and a great-grandchild. He was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Baton Rouge, 9063 Siegen Lane, Suite A,Baton Rouge, LA70810. Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St. , is in charge of arrangements.