Thomas Bates

Thomas R. Bates, 65, of West Lafayette, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Born in Dover on December 9, 1959, he was the son of the late John “Jack” Bates and Anna (Rohr) Bates.

Tom spent his life working hard. He retired from Shelly and Sands after a 20-year career as a supervisor. In his free-time he was an avid coon hunter. He was crowned the 2004 UKC World Night Hunt Champion. Above all, he cherished time with his children and grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and laughter.

Tom is survived by his wife, Jessica (Metzger) Bates, whom he married on September 8, 1990; children, Beau (Kellie) Bates of Ladson, South Carolina, Austin (Courtney) Bates of West Lafayette, and Mackenzie (Adam) Fisher of West Lafayette; grandchildren, Jaxon, Mason, Dylan, Walker, Wyatt, Wheeler, Bexley, and Eastyn; mother, Anna Bates; brother, John Bates; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, John “Jack” Bates; and sister, Kathy Schwartz.

The family will greet guests on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home and Crematory at New Philadelphia. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025 beginning at 10:30 AM in the funeral home chapel. The family will also greet guests one hour prior to the funeral service.