Teddy Lee Bates

Teddy Lee Bates, 72, of Carmel, IN, passed away on 1/13/2022. He was born on 11/1/1949 in Indianapolis to the late Herschel “Bud” & Harriett Bates.

His first love was to his family as well as his friends. He cultivated friendships that lasted a lifetime. Teddy never met a stranger and was loved by all those who knew him.

In his younger years he played football and wrestled. In his adult years he played basketball, golf, poker and tennis. He also enjoyed boating, swimming and entertaining friends. He was well traveled and loved visiting new countries.

Teddy was first a great salesman. From selling velvet paintings on a street corner in St Louis, to door to door cookware sales in NYC, to owning an international manufacturing company, Bates Technologies, Inc. He employed 55 people. Teddy was honored with the nomination of Entrepreneur of the Year in 1995, and appeared in the Indianapolis Business Journal.

Teddy is survived by his wife Julie Bennett Bates and his 2 daughters Natalie Bates (partner Kenneth Carey) and Nicole Bates McElwee (married to Shane McElwee), granddaughters Ciara & Ellen McElwee, and sister Debbie Pate. He is preceded in death by his son Nicholas Bates.

Visitation will be Monday January 17, 2-3 pm, with Funeral Service to follow at 3 pm, both at Flanner Buchanan: 325 E. Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.