Louise June Bates

Louise J. Bates peacefully passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. A vibrant soul, Louise embraced her life with kindness, strength and joy.

Born to Edgar and Edith (Mitchell) May September 30, 1928. Louise was the eldest of the six May children. She was a lifetime resident of Van Buren, Ohio. Louise had her 95th birthday celebration last September surrounded by those dearests to her.

Louise was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother that always protected and supported her family in any way she could. Louise’s deep love and support for her family will always be cherished along with her memories.

Louise’s professional accomplishments were working for the phone company as a telephone operator in her parents’ home in Van Buren, Ohio, working in the advertising department at Cooper Tire, working for the State of Ohio and as a personal caregiver. 

Louise is survived by her daughter, Corinna Sue Elling (Bruce), grandchildren, Jayme Sue Bates Coker, and Derek Matthew Bates Coker, and great-grandson, Aiden Jospeh Gwin. Louise is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. She loved her bonus granddaughters, Janet Davis and Julie Davis. In addition, Louise is survived by her siblings, Kenneth May (Helen), and Charles May (Janet); and close friends, Karen Morrow, Val Raber, Jim and Sue Montgomery.

Her husband Homer E. Bates preceded her in death March 30, 1981.

The family wishes to thank Hospice Ladies, Jordon, Sarah, Tiffany, and Ashley for the compassion and care provided to Louise. A special gratitude to Katie Nielson for her loving care for Louise.

A private graveside service will be in Bechtel Cemetery, Van Buren, Ohio. HUFFORD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 1500 Manor Hill Rd., Findlay, (419-422-1500) has been entrusted with arrangements. 

In Louise’s honor, donations can be made to the Kidney Foundation of Northwest Ohio (www.kfnwo.org), Hancock County Veterans Services (www.hancockveterans.com), or Humane Society & SPCA of Hancock County (www.hancockhumanesociety.com).

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.huffordfh.com. 

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