LEONARD BRIAN BATES

Leonard Brian (Brian) Bates passed away suddenly at the age of 54 on Saturday, November 6, 2021, in Atikokan, Ontario.

Brian, the youngest son, was born to Stan and Marie Bates on October 5, 1967, in Emo, Ontario. His family then relocated to Atikokan in September of 1974, where he attended school and spent the remainder of his life. Once he finished school, he joined the family business; Stan Bates Construction Ltd. and worked alongside his parents and brothers, Robert and George, until his father’s passing in 2012 and at that time became Project Manager. When his mother Marie, passed away in 2020, he took over the family business and carried on working with his brother Robert. Over the years he worked on many projects; building roads, dams, the new town Disposal Site and many demolitions. It was during his early career that his passion became operating back hoes and crushing, which earned him the reputation of being one of the best hoe operators in the area. He also enjoyed time spent with his father and brother Robert, collecting and working on old cars and trucks. He shared many laughs, stories and good times at work with his family, co-workers, friends and visitors that stopped in at the shop and office during this time.

Brian is survived by his brothers Robert Bates, George (Donna) Bates; sisters Shirley (Harold) McQuaker, Carol Ann (Dale) Thompson; nieces Stacy and Melissa; and nephews Shane, Dale, Wade, Jordan, Steven and Kyle; and numerous great-nieces and nephews, aunts and cousins.

He was predeceased by his grandparents George and Bertha Watts, Sidney and Pearl Bates; his parents Stan and Marie Bates; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and recently his best buddy and companion for the last 10 years, his dog Hank.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Atikokan General Hospital. Online condolences may be made at Northridge Funeral Home at www.northridgefuneralhome.com.

Cremation has taken place and a service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements under the care of Northridge Funeral Home, Emo, Ont.