Harold "Harry" Bates Obituary (1943 - 2024)

Harold “Harry” Bates, Sr., age 80, of Coffeyville, Kansas passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center. Harry was born on December 20, 1943 in New Bedford, Massachusetts to Leonard and May (Waring) Bates. He grew up in New Bedford where he attended local schools and graduated from high school. After high school he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force. On July 6, 1966 he was united in marriage to Darlene Wright in Miami, Oklahoma. The couple made their home in Coffeyville. The couple had three children, Sherry, Harold, Jr. and Stephen. Harry spent his free time fishing, coin collecting, and loved everything sports. He enjoyed playing golf, softball and bowling. For years he coached Little League Baseball while the kids were growing up. He was a longtime member of the American Legion Post #20 in Coffeyville where he made many lifelong friends. Surviving to honor his memory is his wife and best friend, Darlene Bates of the home; children, Sherry Koger, Harold Bates, Jr. and Stephen Bates all of Coffeyville, grandchildren, Amber (Ryan) Taylor, Christopher (Jessica) Bates, Antoinette Koger and Jenna Bates, eleven great-grandchildren and a sister, Eleanor (Russell) Zych of Florida along with many extended relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and May Bates. Following Harry’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville. No public services are scheduled at this time. The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to the American Legion Post #20; these may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home 306 N. Cline Rd. Coffeyville, KS 67337. To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family online, visit Harry’s memorial page at www.dwbfh.com