Mark Bates was born in Knoxville, Tennessee on December 10th, 1957 to the late Mack W. Bates and Susie B. Bates (Brown). Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Maggie J. Bates and daughter, Monika Bates. Mark is survived by his children, Montae M. Bates, Mario A. Bates, Marcus L. Bates (wife, Markeshia Bates); niece, Sharee J. Gavin; grandchildren, Monica Bates, Zariyah Bates; sister, Catherine L. Slaughter; brother, Mack W. Bates, Jr.; sisters, Carla F. McCants, Ida G. Grissom and Brenda K. Sanogo; and a host of other family members and friends.
Mark spent most of his childhood with his parents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He worked in many fields and learned many trades over the years, including automotive mechanics and culinary arts. He spent many years working for Queen City Barrel and Ryder Trucking Company.
Mark relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1975 and joined Maggie Price in marriage. Through their union, they were blessed with their eldest son, Montae Bates, and Monika Bates (who preceded them in death). He and Maggie lovingly adopted their niece, Sharee Stafford (Gavin). They were also gifted with their two youngest sons, Mario Bates and Marcus Bates.
Mark was a proud United States Veteran and he served in the U.S. Army from 1979 until 1985, when he was honorably discharged. His Army Honors include receiving the Marksman (rifle M-16) and Expert (hand grenade) badges. He would also often mention that he learned many of his culinary arts from his time in "The Service". He often expressed that he was proud to serve his country.
Mark loved to display his confidence through his "swagged out" attire, fedoras, and wooden canes. He enjoyed watching Western and Kung-Fu movies and listening to Motown music. He took pleasure in fishing, cooking, and mechanics. His children remember him as a strong, stern, and private man who took pride in being their father and ensuring they had a proper education. Above all, his children recognize that he made whatever sacrifices were necessary to guarantee that they would be taken care of.
Memorial Service will be 2:00 pm Sunday, December 4, 2022 with a visitation from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions - Northwest Chapel, 7830 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45231.