Published in the April 1, 2016 edition
STONEHAM — John W. “Jack” Bates, of Stoneham, died at the Massachusetts General Hospital on March 24, 2016 at the age of 84.
Jack was born in Boston, raised in Arlington and was a graduate of Arlington High School, Class of 1950. He went on to earn his Business and Accounting degree from Northeastern University. Jack served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. After returning from Korea, he resided in Stoneham for 42 years and was the chief financial officer for Visidyne Inc. in Burlington for 29 years before his retirement.
Jack enjoyed western movies, wrestling, woodworking carpentry, building, reading and was an avid Patriots and Red Sox fan. He loved to travel with his wife all over Europe, Alaska, South America, Hawaii, Canada and Vermont.
Jack was the beloved husband of Jean M. (Wilson) Bates for 61 years. Loving father of John W. Bates III and his wife Sandra of Melrose, Jeffrey R. Bates of Boston, Joanne M. Bates of Stoneham and Jason W. Bates of Washington, D.C. He was the cherished grandfather of Jack and Melissa; Joshua and Lili; Alexandra, Samuel and Gabriela. He was the devoted great-grandfather of Octavio and Mariela. He was the caring brother of the late Lorraine Bilafer, Gordon Bates and Richard Bates. He was the brother-in-law of Clintelle Bates and Jacqueline Bates. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster St., Melrose on Wednesday, March 30. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home took place on Thursday, March 31, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Patrick Church, 71 Central St., Stoneham. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Stroke Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas TX 75231. To sign online an condolence, visit www.gatelyfh.com.
