Edward Anthony Bates

Passed away peacefully on Monday, January 6th, 2025, at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie, a day after his 84th birthday.

Eddy is survived by his wife of 64 years Gail Bates (nee McLaughlin). From the day they met in Toronto as teenagers in 1958, they were inseparable. They shared a life together of raising their family and creating beautiful memories of travel, dancing, happy hour chats, and spending time with each other.

Eddy is the cherished father of Marilyn (John) Panczuk, Brian (Madeline) Bates, and the late Michele Bates. Loving grandfather of Tanya Panczuk, Justin (Nikki) Bates, Tyler (Allie) Panczuk, and Adam (Madison) Bates. Brother of Marion, the late Terry and the late Audrey.

He became a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker in 1961, at the age of 20, and he applied his aptitude, skill, experience and training over the next 45 years in the trade.

He was passionate about many things, especially fishing, skiing, golfing, and spending time with his family. But mostly, he loved being on the dance floor embracing the love of his life Gail.

There will be a visitation held at Innisfil Funeral Home on Monday, January 13th, 2025, from 2:00p.m. – 4:00p.m. and 6:00p.m. – 8:00p.m. and on Tuesday, January 14th, 2025, from 10:00a.m. until the time of Service at 11:00a.m. There will be a reception following the Funeral Service. Burial at St. Paul’s Cemetery at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.