Obituary
Herbert “Herb” Frank Bates, 78, of Tavares, Florida passed away on Wednesday May 18, 2022 after a lengthy illness. He was born on October 6, 1943 in El Dorado, Arkansas where he lived until he graduated from high school and enlisted in the US Army. While deployed to St. Andreasberg, Germany, he met and married Gudrun. They had two children, did everything together, and were happily married for 50 years.Herb, who served for over 24 years, was a proud US Army veteran. Following his retirement from the Army, he made his home in Huntsville, Alabama where he once again retired after 20 yrs. with the US Postal Service. Throughout his life, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed many outdoor activities including hunting, fishing and gardening.His last years were spent in Tavares, Florida, where he was a member of VFW Post #8087, American Legion Post #35, AMVETS Post #1992, Fraternal Order of Eagles #584 and Lake Veterans Club.He was preceded in death by: his wife, Gudrun Hellmann Bates; his parents, Jessie and Elizabeth Bates; his brothers, James Bates, Dale Bates, and Neal Bates; his sisters, Barbara McGuff and Marilyn Foord.Herb is survived by: his son, Steven Bates (Valerie); daughter, Sheila Bumbaugh (Derick); Grandsons, Keith Bates and Bryan Beck; his brother, Robert Bates; and several nieces, nephews and friends.A memorial service will take place in the near future at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida.
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