Roger A. Bates, 65, of Beaverton, Michigan, passed away at his home on Wednesday morning, September 24, 2014. He was born in Marion, Michigan on April 20, 1949, the son of Ralph & Rose (Simons) Bates. On September 16, 1967, he married the love of his life, Nancy Swosinski in Flushing, Michigan. For 38 years, Mr. Bates was employed as a heavy equipment operator for Operating Engineers Local 324 in Livonia, Michigan. He had lived in Gladwin County since 1971, previously residing in Flint, Michigan. He leaves his loving wife of 47 years, Nancy Bates of Beaverton, to cherish his memory. Also surviving him are his 3 children; Dr. Jeffrey (Sheryl) Bates of Big Rapids, MI; Dr. Wendy (Jeff) Steinkraus of Marcellus, MI; Mr. John Bates of Beaverton, MI. Their children blessed them with 9 beautiful grandchildren: Emily, Peter, Melissa, Amy, Kyle, Kody, Keegan, Serena and Jay as well as 1 great granddaughter: Sophie. He also leaves 4 brothers: Terry (Yoko) Bates of Delaware; Eugene (Peggy) Bates of Beaverton, MI; Steve (Sheila) Bates of Jacksonville, NC; Paul (Karen) Bates of Marion, MI; 15 nieces & nephews and many more wonderful great nieces & great nephews; special brother in-laws: David (Carolyn) Swosinski; Gary (Susan) Swosinski; very special sister in-law: Marsha Kilbourn; special friend: Sheila Olah. He is preceded in death by his parents. Funeral Services will be conducted by Pastor Martin Hodge on Saturday, September 27, 2014, 1:00 P.M. with visitation beginning at 12:00 noon at the Beaverton Church of the Nazarene, Beaverton, Michigan. The family will receive friends on Friday, September 26, 2014 from 12-9:00 P.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin, Michigan. Those wishing to send an expression of sympathy in Roger's memory are asked to consider Mid Michigan Home Care. www.hall-kokotovichfuneralhome.com