John A. Bates

John Albert Bates, 76, Rockford, died peacefully on December 30, 2010 at Swedish American Hospital. He was born May 14, 1934 in Elgin to the late Dr. N.C. Bates and Billie Bates. He was predeceased by his son, John Alan Bates.John attended Purdue University. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Italy and Germany from 1953-1956. Upon his return to the U.S.A. he worked for Sundstrand Aviation Co. in Rockford beginning in 1956 until his retirement over 40 years later. He is survived by his former wife, Barbara J. Bates, Greencastle, IN; son Gerald N. Bates and his wife, Katie; grandsons, Abel Neier Bates and Raymond T. Bates all of Cloverdale, IN.A visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m. on Friday, January 7, 2010 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.