James A. Bates

January 26, 1927 - February 24, 2017

James A. Bates (Big Jim), 90, of Port Washington, passed away Friday, February 24, 2017 in his home. Big Jim was born Wednesday, January 26, 1927 in Sardis, OH., the son of Otis Harrison and Nellie (Finch) Bates. He was a graduate of Beverly High school. He was a WW II veteran serving in the Navy. In 1956 Jim and his wife Betty started Bates Metal Products. He was still active in the business well into his late 80's. When he was't working Jim enjoyed golfing, fishing, poker at the Elks Lodge, bowling and watching sports. Jim was an honorary Kentucky Colonel and active member of the Newcomerstown Elks Lodge. Jim is survived by two sons, James W. Bates and his wife Renee of Cambridge and Terry L. Bates and his wife Jan of Gnadenhutten; his furry companion Rudi; six grandchildren, Jennifer and her husband Dr. John Porter of North Royalton, Nicole and her husband Robert Roth of Port Washington, Bryan and his wife Jody Bates of Hood River, Ore., Brandon and his wife Taneka Bates of Dennison, Jamie Fulton (companion Jimmy Lawrence) and Kelly Kohler; 14 great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents Jim was preceded in death by his wife Betty J. (Albright) Bates of 71 years.and seven sisters and three brothers. The family would like to thank all of Jim's caregivers that gave him wonderful care for the past years. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday Feb. 28, 2017 at 2:00 pm at the Addy Funeral Home in Newcomerstown. Burial will be in the Union Cemetery, Port Washington, with Military graveside services conducted by the Newcomerstown Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be Tuesday Feb. 28, 2017 from 12:00pm to 2:00 pm.Memorial contributions may be made to Interim Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.addyfuneralhome.com