Paul James Bates Sr. of Gladstone MO, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2021 at the age of 85. Paul was surrounded by loved ones and medical professionals at North Kansas City Hospital at the time of his passing.
Paul is survived by his brother Thomas Bates; daughter Julie Bates-Augustyn; son Paul Bates Jr. and wife Lisa; daughter Terri Rodina and husband Tommy; son Vincent Bates; and grandchildren Austin, Tess, Kara, Jake, and Vincent.
Paul was preceded in death by his loving wife, Theresa Catherine Bates, in October of 2010. They were married for 50 wonderful years. In that time, they created a beautiful family, network of friends, and memories to last longer than a lifetime.
Paul was born on September 23, 1935 in Guthrie Center, Iowa to Vincent Bates and Helen Simmons. He grew up in Panora, Iowa where he remained until he graduated high school and enlisted in the US Navy. Paul was stationed in the Philippines during the Korean War era and served in the Navy on active duty for 4 years. After returning to the United States, Paul began working for Ford Motor Company and was a member of Local Unions 249 and 394. Eventually, he retired from Ford after 30 years of dedicated, quality service.
Paul was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, the highest degree of the order. He enjoyed going to church regularly and living his life in accordance with his faith. He loved traveling with family, trips to the lake, boating, camping, and fishing. He appreciated classic cars, music, and television shows that included Wheel of Fortune and Blue Bloods. Paul was a Godly and patient man. His actions were kind, his words were loving, and he treated others graciously.
