Listen to the Obituary
Richard Joseph Bates, 63, passed away Sunday May 3, 2015….
Born on July 26, 1951 in Ashland, KY Rick was the middle son of the late Lenora Mae Callahan Bates and John Davis Bates, Sr.
He grew up in Boyd County and enjoyed fishing, baseball, and basketball. Rick graduated from Boyd County High School in 1969 and the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration in 1973. His first job was in the credit industry as a Repo Man. In 1978 Rick moved to Margaritaville (Key West) where he worked several jobs. Seeking fortune and fame, he moved to Phoenix, AZ and worked in the car detailing industry, later opening a franchise in San Diego, CA.In 1980, his friendly personality and generous spirit served him well at the Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau. Rick served as the Director of the Springfield, IL Convention and Visitors Bureau. Rick wanted to move back to Kentucky and in 1986 became the Extension Tourism Development Specialist for the University of Kentucky based out of Somerset, KY. It was in Somerset where Rick found his home, becoming involved in his work, the community and the American Legion Post 38. Rick was an avid UK fan and a lifetime member of the Big Blue Nation.
His parents, Lenora Mae Callahan Bates and John Davis Bates, Sr, preceded him in death.
Rick is survived by two brothers, John Davis Bates, Jr of Lexington, KY and Kenneth J. Bates of Frankfort, KY, nieces Samantha Mae Bates Johnson, Kellynn Lee Bates Thompson, of Frankfort, KY, Hallie Franklin Bates of Atlanta, GA, and great-niece Adalyn Dianah Mae Johnson of Frankfort, KY, nephews Davis Wingrove Bates, of Washington DC, Louis Callahan Bates of Frankfort, KY and great nephews Ty Davis Thompson and Boone Tillman Thompson of Frankfort, KY, and so very many friends.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held at the Somerset American Legion Post 38 on Friday, May 22 from 6-8 pm.
Dress is casual, but please wear UK blue and white.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Somerset Little League, Southern & Eastern Kentucky Tourism Development Association, the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.
Southern Oaks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.