Final Salute

Bates, George William II MELROSE George William Bates II of Melrose, passed away on May 25, 2022. He was 77. He was born in Albany on July 3, 1944, to the late George W. and Mabel (Cook) Bates. In 1971, he married his wife, Barbara Jean (Baickle) Bates. In June this year, they would have celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary. George was a graduate of the Hoosic Valley Central School District, class of 1962. He attended Hudson Valley Community College, where he earned his associate degree in automotives. George soon after entered the military in 1966 as a United States Navy SeaBee and was initially stationed in Adak, Alaska. He was deployed to Vietnam during the war where he continued his service until his honorable discharge in 1968. George was owner operator of Shorty’s Autobody in Schaghticoke, and was a pillar of the community. He was a life member of the Melrose Fire Department, acting in various roles, including company president and chairman of the Fire Commissioners, during his 60 years of service. His presence in the community also included working as a rural postal carrier, past school board member and director of the HVAA Junior Bowling League, among other various community organizations and events. George enjoyed bowling and did so with the Fireman’s League at Hilltop Bowl Sunday nights. There was nowhere George loved to be more than in North Wildwood, N.J. Traveling there was an annual trip since he was a child, in order to spend time with extended family. Many memories have been made at the beach. Survivors, along with his wife Barbara, include his two children, Jacqueline (Mark) Meeks of Melrose, and Michael Bates of Melrose. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Ethan Meeks, Katelyn Bates, Kacie Bates, and Matthew Dickson. Relatives and friends may call from 5 – 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 31, at Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, 173 Main St., Schaghticoke. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, June 1, starting at 10 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery in Schaghticoke. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Melrose Fire Department. Online remembrances may be made at www.chasesmithfamily.com