WAYNE ROGER BATES

Wayne was born in Alpena County on Feb. 14, 1937 to the late Floyd and Daisy (Montie) Bates. Wayne retired from Abitibi in 1999 after 37 years. On July 23, 2005, he married Gayle (Kirchoff) Kauffman. He enjoyed playing baseball, softball and will be remembered for playing in area bands including Wild Country, Drifters and Over the Hill Band.

Surviving are his wife, Gayle; four children, John (Kathryn) Geddert, Wayne (Denise) Bates, Mark (Kristine) Bates, Tina Bates; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; Gayle’s family, Brad (Melissa) Kauffman, Brian (Catherine) Kauffman, Jeff (Kim) Kauffman, Chris (Gina) Kauffman; 10 grandchildren; two sisters, Mabel Johnson, Dale Mousseau; brother, Terry (Tammy) Bates; several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Bates was preceded in death by grandson, Justin M. Wieschowski; and an infant brother, Roy.

Memorial visitation will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2020 at the Bannan Funeral Home from 1 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 4 p.m. with Rev. James Erickson officiating.