John E. Bates

John E. Bates Jr., passed away on March 15, 2025, at the age of 86 in Geneva, NY. John was born on August 1, 1938, in Arcadia, FL, the son of Edwin & Nellie (nee Deese) Bates. John led a life marked by dedication to both his profession and family.

John had a long and distinguished career as an estimator and civil engineer with Hayner Hoyt Corporation of Syracuse. His expertise and commitment to his work earned him great respect among colleagues and clients alike. His military service in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1958 was a quiet fact that he held close to his chest; nevertheless, it shaped his character and instilled in him a strong sense of duty and responsibility that carried through his life.

John had a strong work ethic and was a wonderful provider for his family, balancing his professional commitments with quality family time. He was known for his sage advice and quick wit, traits that brought joy and laughter to those around him. John's personality resonated with warmth and dedication, making him a cherished figure among his loved ones and friends.

Among his many interests, John was a Life Member of the MacDougall Sportsmen's Club and held court at the "Old Man's Coffee Club" at Carl's Country Store and later at Byrne Dairy in Waterloo, from which he formed several long-term friendships.

John is survived by his children: Maureen (John) Hennessy of Geneva, Daniel (Denise) Allis of Wichita, KS, Michael (Krista) Allis of Waterloo, Scott (Laura) Allis of Greece, NY, Dawn Bogdan of Cortland, and Tami (Greg) Brinkman of Newark. He was a proud grandfather to Jason, Jim, Kelli, Kyle, Anne, Michael, Josh, Kaleb, and Katie, as well as a loving great-grandfather to Jeffrey, Jaelynn, Brooklyn, Jenna, Valerie Rose, Adrien Scott, Addie, and Isla; and by his sister Carolyn Hitt of Georgia. John was preceded in death by his loving wife, Kathleen, who passed away in 2003, leaving behind treasured memories.

A funeral service, led by his son, Scott, will be held at 10:00am on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Covert Funeral Home in Ovid, NY, prayers of committal will be held at Mount Green Cemetery in Romulus. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.