LEESBURG, Fla. – Ira M. Bates, 74, of Winterport and Lewiston, died May 17, in Florida.

He was an electronics salesman, owned a lunch wagon and a video store, was an electrician’s helper and an international Good Sams ambassador.

He was a member of Hampden Methodist Church, the Masons and the Shrine. He belonged to Good Sam and Family Motor Coach Association. He was on the school board for SAD 22, was a deputy sheriff, Maine Good Sam state director, 1993 to 1995, volunteered at Eastern Maine Maine Center for the smoking cessation clinic and Meals for Me.

He had a fantastic smile, was a hugger, loved everyone and was eager to help. He always had time for people.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Rosemary (Verhille) Bates; daughter, Cheryl Lockhart, and husband, Boyd; son, Robert, and wife, Kara; grandchildren, Derek, Hillary, Nick and Jack; sister, Donna Kilgore, and husband, Robert; brothers, Hollis, and wife, Nadine and George and wife, Elizabeth; sister-in-law, Sally Bates; his grandchildren were very special to him; as were many nieces, nephews and cousins.