Douglas Stephen Bates

Douglas Stephen Bates, 83, died in Indianapolis on Saturday, December 10, 2016, after a short illness. He was surrounded by his loving family. Doug was born in Indianapolis on September 21, 1933, to the late Gerritt M. and Cecil F. Bates. Mr. Bates’ ancestors were among the founders of Lawrence Township. Doug attended Butler University and the University of Illinois, where he graduated with a degree in geology. He founded Bates Insurance Agency under the umbrella of the family real estate business, Margaret Evans Real Estate Company. He expanded into the custom homebuilding business, Bates Custom Homes. He retired from the home building business in 2000 and from Indiana Department of Natural Resources in 2013. Doug was a paleontologist, Army sergeant during the Korean Conflict, insurance salesman, real estate broker, home builder, state building inspector, sports fan, pilot, pool hall manager, master poker player, friend, character (his jokes and sense of humor will be sorely missed), Christian, church elder, mentor, friend, brother, husband, and father. Doug was a long time member of Sertoma and Kiwanis, as well as active in church ministries. He was preceded in death by his wife Jane and brother Jerry. He is survived by his adored companion and fiancé, Jean Patton of Indianapolis, and by his children, Dana (Stephen) Bola, Gregory (Janet) Brune, Carole Bates, Jeffrey (Debi) Bates, Bradford (Deane Hall) Bates and seven grandchildren, Adam, Shane, Andrew, Kile, Hannah, Nicholas, and Daniel. Doug cherished his children and grandchildren, whom he considered his greatest joy and accomplishment. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 14, 2016 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Flanner and Buchanan-Broad Ripple. Services will be Thursday, December 15, 2016 at 11 a.m. with calling one hour prior at North United Methodist Church, 3808 North Meridian, Indianapolis, IN 46208. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the following non-profits: Bread and Bowl Ministries at North United Methodist Church, 3808 North Meridian, Indianapolis IN 46208 or the Chapel at Robin Run Village, 5354 West 62nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46268.