Ronald Hamilton Bates

Ronald Hamilton Bates
January 10, 1938 - November 2, 2007
SALEM - Ron was suddenly and unexpectedly called home by his Lord and Savior on Friday morning, November 2, 2007. He was born in Dallas, Oregon, the son of Walter E. Bates and Eva Mae Hamilton. He spent many years growing up in the Dallas/Rickreall area. He had many fond memories of his childhood on the Hamilton family farm, while his father served in World War II. As a teenager while he was in high school, Ron worked in the family construction business for two years while his father was in the T.B. Hospital. Ron graduated from South Salem High School in 1956, and went to work for Tum A Lum Lumber after graduation. Ron joined the National Guard and was a member for over eight years. He worked for Wally Bonesteele for a number of years, before he began building apartments. In 1959, he began building his first apartment project. In 1972, he and his father began construction on Birchwood Court Apartments, and owned and managed them until his death. He married Peggy Reid on January 18, 1957, and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary January 2007. Ron possessed a kind, gentle soul with a spontaneous sense of humor, and he attracted friends effortlessly. He was a workaholic, but always had time for his family's needs. Ron was a protector and an inspiration to his family. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. His was a generous spirit, he was greatly loved, and will be missed and loved forever. He is survived by his wife, Peggy; daughter, Debbie Bates; son, Bob Bates; son, Walter (Leesa) Bates; sister, Sharon (Ed) Schutte; two grandchildren, and three nephews and their families. Contributions may be made to Union Gospel Mission.