Thomas Lee Bates

Thomas Lee Bates, 55, of Newark, passed away on June 9, 2020 at the Selma Markowitz Care Center, operated by Hospice of Central Ohio. He was born in Orlando, Florida on June 26, 1964 to Marion Joseph and Margaret June (Little) Bates. Prior to retirement, he worked for Packaging Corporation of America for 19 years. He loved coaching sports; coaching basketball at the Licking County YMCA; Utica little league; and Utica basketball. He also enjoyed watching Duke basketball, but most important was the time he spent with his loving family, especially watching his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. In addition to his parents, survivors include his loving wife of 33 years, Carrie E. (Hoffer) Bates, whom he married July 26, 1987; children, Jessica MacDonald; Kevin Hoffer and Colin Bates; brothers and sisters, Brad Bates, David Bates, Steven (Lisa) Bates and Susan Bates; grandchildren, Cayden MacDonald, Keegan MacDonald, Parker MacDonald and Lauren Skinner; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ray and Beatrice Bates and maternal grandmother, Cora June Little. A memorial service, celebrating the life of Thomas, will be held at a later date. Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral and Cremation Service is honored to care for Thomas and his family.