Ronnie Duane Bates, 67, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Ron was the son of Robert Duane Bates and June Bebe Whiteside. Ron was born on April 18, 1958, in Hugoton, Kansas and later, he and his mother moved to Pampa, Texas. When Ron was 14, he believed the gospel of Jesus Christ for salvation and was baptized. Ron married Leisa Renee Pate and had two sons Clinton Bates and Craig Bates. Ron was an accomplished mechanic, who worked on Eighteen-wheel semi tractor trailers. Ron loved hot rods and any type of car races. Ron also loved fishing Kerr Reservoir, where he landed many largemouth bass over 5 pounds.
Ron is survived by his two sons, Clinton Bates and Craig Bates, his sister Charla Chrislip, his nephew Allen Bates, and his nieces Barbie Carter and Sara Chrislip, along with many other relatives and friends.
The Celebration of Life Graveside Services for Ron will be held 2pm – Friday, November 21, 2025, Graveside at Cowlington Cemetery in Cowlington, Oklahoma with Clinton Bates sharing a few stories and Gods promises and burial to follow. The Family of Ronnie Bates will greet friends from 12noon – 2pm on Friday, November 21, 2025, also at cemetery before the Graveside services.
Online condolences can be made at www.holtfuneralandcremation.com
“Through Love, Serve One Another”
The Family of Ronnie Bates has entrusted his arrangements to Holt Funeral and Cremation, 522 Dewey Ave Poteau, OK 74953, (918) 721-0026. Poteau’s Only 100% Locally Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home – Our Family, Loving Your Family Through
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