Michael Stephen Bates

With profound sadness, the family of Michael “Mike” Bates announces his passing. Born on April 15, 1952, Mike passed away peacefully at home on September 7, 2026, at the age of 74, surrounded by love.

Mike and his wife, Dawn, shared 48 years together and were married for 45 of those years.

In addition to Dawn, Mike is survived by his children, Brande, Ryan, and Danielle; his grandchildren, Devon, Kylee, and Kassidy; and his great-granddaughter, Stella.

He is also survived by his siblings: Vicki Parker and her husband, Larry; John Bates and his wife, Karen; and Susan Davison and her husband, Russell. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Michael Evans, and his wife, Denise, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He will also be remembered by his many friends. Mike was preceded in death by his sister, Leslie Cunanan Shipps.

When Dawn and Mike began their life together, he was working as a truck driver. He later spent approximately 35 years with Baxter Healthcare as a truck driver and warehouse coordinator. He took great pride in his work and was known for his dependability.

Mike was generous with his time and always willing to help others. He showed his love through his actions, working hard to support his family and standing beside Dawn as they cared for her grandmother and mother. Although his bark could be bigger than his bite, beneath his tough exterior was a caring, funny, and tender man who loved making people laugh.

Family time was important to Mike. Over the years, he enjoyed camping and fishing with his family and cheering on family members at their sporting events.

Music and concerts were an important part of Mike and Dawn’s life together. After Dawn took him to his first concert—the Rolling Stones—Mike was always willing to go with her, even when the ticket price fell into the “better not to ask” category. They saw Paul McCartney as often as possible, creating some of their favorite memories.

Baseball was another important part of their life together. Dawn had always been a Dodgers fan, while Mike was originally an Angels fan. They enjoyed their Freeway Series rivalry and attended Dodgers games together for many years. After Mike lost his vision, Dawn tried to give him a play-by-play account. When attending games became too difficult, they watched every Dodgers game at home. Dawn watched the game while Mike managed the Dodgers from the couch, reviewing the lineup, pitching changes, base running, and every other decision.

For the last 12 years of his life, Mike lived with serious illness. He endured numerous surgeries and hospital stays, as well as a kidney transplant. He faced each challenge with remarkable strength, courage, and determination. When additional treatment would no longer help him, Mike and Dawn chose to focus on his comfort and honor his wish to remain at home.

During their final days together, Mike and Dawn lay side by side listening to Paul McCartney and the Beatles. On the morning after a Dodgers win, Mike passed away peacefully at home, exactly where he wanted to be.

Mike was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

When Mike and Dawn’s life together began, he was an Angels fan. Over the years, he became a Dodgers fan. Now he is an angel watching over the family he loved so deeply—and Dawn will always be his biggest fan, cheering him on just as she did throughout their life together.

Mike was laid to rest at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park in Ventura