Robert W. Bates Sr. and Helen “Jean” Rounds Bates
Robert W. Bates Sr. and Helen "Jean" Rounds Bates
Now together with their Lord and Savior, Robert W. Bates Sr. and Helen “Jean” Rounds Bates passed away in late 2016. Robert, born in Boston, MA to Ellsworth and Mildred (Bashaw) Bates, departed this life on September 24th at the age of 92. Helen, born in Brad-ford, PA to Luis and Ruth Rounds, joined him in heaven on Friday, December 30th at the age of 90. In their 72 years of marriage, Robert and Helen raised three sons, Walter, Bob, and David. They are survived by 13 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren, whom they loved very much.
Before meeting Robert, Helen worked for two years at the J.N. Adam Hospital. After marrying in October of 1943, both proudly served in the U.S. military. Based in Topeka, KS, Robert worked in the Army Air Corp as an attack/sentry dog trainer during World War II along with his twin brother, Walter. Helen worked as a Riveter for CurtissWright Air Forces and later as a base escort for Commanders in Oklahoma.
Robert and Helen owned and operated Bates Furniture (19571964) and a small fruit farm (1964 1970). After that, Robert went on to work as a furniture salesman at Ehler’s Furniture in Dunkirk until 1986, when he joined with his son Walter to open a sleep shop as part of D&K Furniture. Helen enjoyed making a home for her growing family, crafting, designing floral arrangements, and sewing.
Both Robert and Helen shared a deep Christian faith and charitable heart for animals. Their love for nature and animals has carried on through many generations.
Robert and Helen are survived by their sons, Robert (Linda) Bates and David Bates; and predeceased by their eldest son Walter (Betty) Bates.
Robert was also predeceased by his parents; his brothers, George and Walter; and his sister, Ruth Krebs.
Helen is survived by her siblings, Betty Rounds Davidson Crowell, Annamae Rounds Gizowski, Lois (Ray) Rounds Woodward, and Daniel Hardy. She was predeceased by her parents and loving stepfather, Merle Hardy; and her siblings, Elma Hardy Gould, Kenneth Hardy, and Larry Hardy.
A celebration of life for Robert and Helen will be planned for a later time this year. The family asks that any memorials to Robert and Helen be made to local animal shelters.