Richard R. Bates

Age 81, of Minerva died Thursday, July 22, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born Oct. 19, 1939 in Canton. He retired from the United States Postal Service in 2005 after 37 years of service.  He is a 1957 graduate of Minerva High School.

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty (Marion) Bates whom he married April 20, 2004, 6 daughters, Vickie (Terry) Eick of Minerva, Debbie (Ron) Bates of Minerva, Kathy (Kenny) Ullom of Minerva, Amanda (Chris) Read of Green, Brooke (Kyle) Thorne of N. Canton, Anna (Elijah) Cole of East Canton, sister, Susan Bates of Minerva, 13 grandchildren, Christi (Eric) McReynolds, Austin (Gemma) Eick, Karlee (Raymond) Eick, McKenna (Zach) Bowman, Garrett (Adrean) Ullom, Paige (Cory) Booth, Hayley, Gavin, and Skylar Reed, Aiden Kelly, Kellan and Miles Thorne and Vanna Cole (his little buddy), 4 great grandchildren, Braeden and Breaunna McReynolds, Angel Borbajo and Amelia Eick. He is preceded in death by a granddaughter, Arla Cole.

His wishes were to be cremated and there will be no formal services.