Allan David Bates, Clearwater, Florida, December 8, 1947 – October 7, 2025. Allan David Bates was born on December 8, 1947 to Charles and Genevieve Bates. His older sister, Patricia, was 8 years old at that time, and his younger sister, Susan, would come along 17 months later. Allan grew up in Schoolcraft, in the home that was attached to his dad’s medical office. When he was a baby, the nurse from the office came out to the kitchen to make some tea for Doc, and she greeted the baby with “hi there Bud!” That nickname stuck and stayed with him among family and friends. In later years, he preferred to be called Al simply because that is how he was known in his workplaces, but to his family and childhood friends, he was most often known as Bud.
Allan was raised in Schoolcraft, Michigan and graduated from Schoolcraft High School in 1966. He attended Western Michigan University and was enrolled in their engineering program. From an early age, Allan enjoyed restoring classic cars, boating and photography.
He used to watch Harley Skinner work on cars in his body shop near his family’s home and began learning about cars from him. He eventually worked at Krum Chevrolet as a mechanic where he learned even more. He restored several cars, including an old Porshe and at least one old Jaquar. He learned a lot about boating when his parents owned a boat that they kept in Holland for a short time. Photography was always an interest.
Al was married in 1970 to Carol Kuiper in Portage. Their sons Brian and Kevin were born in 1972 and 1977. Allan wanted to live in a warmer climate, so they moved to Florida in 1978 and bought a home in Orlando where there were many job opportunities for someone with Al’s sales skills. He first worked in the boating industry there. Al’s father passed away that same year and within two years, Al’s mother also moved to Florida. Sue’s family has fond memories of visiting them in Florida, where everyone enjoyed their pool and adventures at Disney World.
After Al and Carol’s marriage ended, Al and the boys moved to Clearwater, Florida and he worked in the boat industry there. He later transitioned to car sales when an economic downturn drove boat sales down. It was in Clearwater that Al met Melinda, who survives him, and in 2000 they married.
Al had health challenges that began in 2008 and may have started with a case of shingles on his head. He began experiencing memory issues and was eventually diagnosed with hydrocephalus. As his condition changed over the years, Al and Melinda adjusted as needed to accommodate his needs. He was still mischievous and engaged in life until recently. He passed away peacefully at home on October 7, 2025.
A celebration of Allan Bates’ life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 1:00 pm, at Connections Community Church north of Schoolcraft at U Avenue and 131. The memorial service will be followed by light refreshments in the lobby. We hope you will join us to share happy memories of Al.
Allan Bates is survived by his wife of 25 years, Melinda; his sons Brian and Kevin; his sister Susan Hendriksma, nieces and nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Genevieve Bates and his older sister Patricia Sauer.
