"Paw"

November 16, 1953 – March 10, 2018

Lonnie Douglas Bates, best known as "Paw " was born to Raymond and Helen (Lewis) Bates of Ft. Scott, Kansas on November 16, 1953.  Lonnie was the sixth and last child born to this family union.

Lonnie attended school in Ft. Scott, Kansas and later joined the Marines in serving his country.  He received an honorable discharge in 1977. Lonnie moved to Tulsa, Ok where he started his career with Rockwell International, being brought out by Boeing Company, which later was brought out by Spirit AeroSystems. Lonnie labored for these companies 39 years.  Lonnie enjoyed playing pool, keeping his yard immaculate, watching sports, but watching "The Voice" was his favorite past time. Lonnie was a very good handy man with fixing things around the house and the vehicles, which earned him the slogan, "Paw'll fix it!"

Lonnie met and married his loving wife Tracie. They raised their three children together, and were able to enjoy seeing their six grandchildren.  Lonnie was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Lonnie was proceeded in death by his parents, Raymond and Helen Bates, two brothers, Charles and Larry.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife Tracie, daughter, Brittany Cozart (Antonio), two sons, Ricco Bates (Autumn), and Trey Motte; six grandchildren: Sylus, Aybrin, Gabriela, Dru, Rylyn, and Audrina; two sisters; Norma China (Mike) and Marieda Lewis; one brother, Ray Bates (Kristi); along with a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Services for Mr. Bates will be Friday March 16, 2018 at 9:30AM at Transformation Church in Tulsa.

Burial will follow at The National Cemetery in Fort Gibson at 12Noon with Military Honors for his service to The United States Marine Corps.

Visitation will be Thursday from 1PM until 7PM in The Tulsa Chapel.