On June 8, 2025, Ronald Leroy Bates went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Ronald was born on March 6, 1940, to Harold and Betty Bates in  Fresno CA.

He met his wife of 18 years, Julie Bates , during his third year of college. They married on August 16, 1961. They had eight children, three sons-in-law, and one grandchild, with more on the way. Julie was called home in 1980. Ronald re-married in 1983. His 2nd wife, Christine had 4 kids (Gary, Audrey, Kristianne, and Jason) whom Ronald took as his own and often lovingly called his “bonus kids” & they had 2 more children together. His love for both his wives and all his children helped make his family a haven, one he extended to others in need of family and friendship.

Ronald saw his Christian faith summed up in the words “I am not my own, but completely belong to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.” It was his greatest hope that his family, friends and co-workers had a relationship with God. He expressed this conviction that his life is God’s, in everything he did, especially in serving others. In a conversation the day before his death, Ronald reiterated his belief that God is sovereign, and good, even when circumstances in life seem to say otherwise.

Ronald lived with integrity, compassion, generosity, and laughter. He was spontaneous, the kind of father who takes his children day hikes turned science lessons. He never missed a game or event, even when multiple kids had games or events and he had to split his time between them, he made sure to be there. In his spare time, he used his mechanical knowledge to help friends and family who may not be able to afford a mechanic or couldn’t get their car into a shop. 

Ronald is survived by his children; Bethany, Gary,  Crystal, Adam, Matthew, Michael, Raymond, Nathan, Tabitha, Jacob, Caleb, Audrey, Kristianne and Jason; sisters Elizabeth and Ruth & brothers David, John, Michael and Matthew, and grandson Josiah

He was preceded in death by his mother, father, a sister, 1st wife Julie & 2nd wife Christine.

A celebration of life service for family & close friends will be held at Matthew’s home on Saturday June 14. You can contact the family for more details 

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