Carlton Bates

Carlton R. Bates of Rockford, aged 90, passed away Saturday, April 30, 2016, in Libertyville Manor. He was born August 9, 1925 in Harrison Township, IL. The son of Guy and Florence Bates, he graduated from West High School and received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. His family came from English immigrants who worked as blacksmiths in Northern Michigan, settling in northern Illinois in the late 1800's, and throughout his life, he loved all things British, including "Downton Abbey," classic English cars, and British military history.
He was a proud veteran, serving in the U.S. Army during WWII. He married Eileen Bachrodt Frazier and worked for G.D. Searle as a pharmaceutical Rep for many years. Survivors include his wife, Eileen, three children: Neil R. Bates of DeKalb, Frances Waible of Round Lake, IL and Julie (Greg) Lucas of Highlands Ranch, CO; grandchildren: Elizabeth Beckman, Brian (Laura) Lucas, Guy and Kevin Bates; and great grandchildren: Adriana Lucas and Joseph Beckman. He taught his children to appreciate great literature, culture, and music as well as the art of politics, and was a civilized, intelligent gentleman and a scholar who made the world a better place. Private family services. Arrangements completed by Fitzgerald Funeral Home Mulford Chapel.