Obituary of Willis Bates

Willis Alexander Bates, of Cowan Street, passed peacefully during the night, March 29, 2022 at his home in Westville, after a lovely day
spent with friends and family.

Willis was born in Cape Breton, to Willis and Catherine (Currie) Bates. He grew up in New Waterford and as a young man, went to work in the mines until he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and studied electronics. Willis transferred overseas, where he worked in telecommunications and met his beloved wife Dorothy (Hines). After leaving the air force, he graduated from Loyalist College and worked in television repair. In 1976, Willis and family moved to Westville, and he worked at Michelin Tire until his retirement.

He was always a hard worker and he liked to help people. He served a term on the town council, and is a former member of the VON board of directors. Willis was also active with fund raising for MS charities, and in his later years, he participated in the  Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser. He was a member of the Pictou County Amateur Radio Club. He greatly enjoyed the friendships made through the club and liked helping new members prepare for the licensing exams. His call sign was VA1WAB.

Much-loved and missed by his family, he loved to talk and laugh. He joked a lot and you had to laugh too, mostly because he would laugh and it was infectious. He loved all animals, and is well known for long walks around Westville with his dog Gabby. He was a devoted husband and caregiver to his wife until she passed in 2013.

Willis is survived by his children: Valerie (Shane) Forsyth, and Anthony (Sandra); grandchildren: Laura and Sean; great grandchildren: Elaina and Nate; brother: Bernard; sisters: Rene and Marilyn.

Besides his parents, Willis was predeceased by his wife Dorothy and  sister Minerva.

There will be no visitations or funeral service by request. Donations can be made in his memory, to the Pictou County Food Bank or to the Pictou County SPCA.