Gary "Bato" Bates, 72, of Tuscola, IL, passed away at 11:56 p.m., Thursday, November 10, 2011 at his home with family at his side.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday, November 13, 2011 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 705 South Main Street, Tuscola, IL. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at the Tuscola Township Cemetery with Tuscola Fire Department Chaplin Joseph Carter officiating.

Gary was born on June 12, 1939, the son of Marshall "Steve" and Irene (Ryan) Bates. His parents and sister: Darlene Alblinger preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Darla, daughter: Dee Ann Bates, son: Steve (Sandy) Bates, grandchildren: Stephanie Christopherson, Zachary, Nicholas and Natalie Bates.

Gary graduated from Tuscola Community High School in 1957. He was a member of the 1956 undefeated Okaw Champion Warrior Football Team. He was a big fan of Tuscola sports. Gary was a member of the first Tuscom Little League team in 1952 and later coached and was president of the league. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports. His unselfishness touched the hearts of many people.

Gary retired from Ecoff/LTC Trucking Company after 40 years of service. He was a member of the Tuscola Moose Lodge, Teamsters Union and was a volunteer fireman for the Tuscola Fire Department for over 30 years.

Memorials may be made to the Tuscom Little League, P.O. Box 51, Tuscola, IL 61953 or a youth sports organization of your choice.

Online condolences to the family may be sent via hilligossshraderfh.com