Hollis Bates
LEWISTON – Hollis Bates, 93, passed away Dec. 3, 2022. He was born in Hersey on April 27, 1929, to Graydon and Beulah Arbor Bates.
He graduated from Patten Academy. He served as a Naval Reservist for two years, and then served four years in the Navy. He graduated from Milwaukee School of Engineering, majoring in Electronics.
He moved to Lewiston with his older brother, Merle, and established a partnership called Bates Electronics. At one time all their brothers worked with them. Hollis was a member of the Calvary United Methodist Church for over 30 years, Assistant State Director of the Good Sam Camping Club for over 20 years and served as a Scoutmaster of the Boy Scouts of America Troup 171. He was very proud to be a member of the Maine State Hall of Fame as a basketball player. In 1947 Patten Academy won the New England title over Boston Latin at the Boston Gardens. Hollis was a very giving person and happiest when he could fix something for somebody or help them in some way.
Hollis is survived by his wife of 70 years, Nadine Botting Bates; two daughters, Melanee Stevens of Shelton, Wash., Susan Hamann and husband David of Buckfield, and son, Rodney of Auburn. He is also survived by one sister, Donna Kilgore of Connecticut, and three sisters-in-law, Elizabeth, Sally and Rosemary Bates.
Hollis was very proud of his grandchildren Lindsay, Ariana, Abigayle, Gavin, Megan, Ashlee, and Garrett; and his great-grandchildren Mallory, Joshua, Madalyn, Molly, and Emersyn.
Hollis shared a unique bond with his granddaughter, Lindsay and her partner, Mike, who became like a grandson to Hollis over the last several years. A special thank you to both for the care and selfless love you have given their grandfather.
Hollis was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Pauline and Emily, and five brothers, Merle, Maurice, Ira, Wendell, and George.
To leave a message for the family in the online guestbook, please visit http://www.thefortingroupauburn.com
Visitation Fortin Group / AUBURN Thursday Dec. 15 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. followed by an in-house memorial service at 12 p.m. A graveside committal will be held at the Maine Veterans Cemetery on Friday, Dec. 16 at 10 a.m.
Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 217 Turner St., Auburn, 783-8545.
In lieu of flowers, please mail a donation to:
Alzheimer’s Association
Maine Chapter
383 U.S. Route,1 Suite 2C
Scarborough, ME 04074
or call 207-772-0115
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