James Harvey Bates, 88, Truro, passed away Friday, May 29, 2009 in The Mira, Truro with his loving family at his side.
Born in Truro and grew up in Stewiacke East, he was a son of the late Carlyle and Blanche (Atkinson) Bates.
Jim was a retired building contractor. He served over seas during the Second World War with the 29 Field Squadron, Royal Canadian Engineers. He was wounded in action. Jim was a honorary member of the Truro Fire Brigade and a life member of Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 26, Truro for the past 63 years. Jim enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was a very kind and caring man, always joking and making people laugh. Jim was a genuine friend to all who had the privilege of meeting him. His family was his world.
Surviving are his wife of 67 years Margaret (MacKay); daughters Shirley (Don Thomas), Burlington, Ont., Diane (Gordon Kennedy), Hilden, Linda MacKinnon (Gerry), Truro, Joan Matheson, Truro, Mary (Dave MacKay) Bible Hill and Heather Bates (Gerard Chisholm), Bible Hill; grandchildren, Donald, Kim, Tammy, Todd, Jamie, Jody, Melanie, Christina, Sherri, Jeffrey and Patrick; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Marie Ryan, Sydney, Cape Breton, Ina (Bert Gibbs), Bible Hill; many nieces and nephews.
Jim was predeceased by an infant daughter, Shelly Ann; sister, Hazel; brothers, Carl and Floyd.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the wonderful staff at the Mira, for the excellent care given to Jim over the past four years.
There will be no visitation by request. A Royal Canadian Legion Tribute will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, June 1, followed by a celebration of life service and reception in Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow St., Truro with Mr. Leland MacLean officiating. Interment in Robie Street Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 26, Truro, Building Fund or Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. Condolences to the family may be made at: www.colchestercommunity.com