Jack George Bates

Jack George Bates, 95, of Livingston, Montana passed away with the love of his family surrounding him on Friday, November 16, 2018 at his home. A graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 21, 1 P.M. at Mountain View Cemetery. Please meet at Franzen-Davis Funeral Home (118 North 3rd St., Livingston) by 12:45 to proceed to the Cemetery. A viewing will be held Wednesday beginning at noon, at Franzen-Davis. Veterans Honors will be presented by the Park Post American Legion, #23, and the Sergeant Tommy Ray V.F.W. Post # 2154. A meal will follow the service at Living Hope Church, 226 S 3rd St, Livingston.Jack was born on March 29, 1923 in Wilsall, Montana. He was the son of Noah and Thelma (Holman) Bates. Jack was a graduate of Park County High School. Following school, he was drafted into the United States Army on April 8th, 1943. He served in the South Pacific and was awarded two purple hearts. He was discharged on January 3rd, 1946 having earned the rank of Sergeant. Once he returned to Livingston, he was united in marriage to Ruth Carol Whitney on July 1st, 1947. Jack then took work with the Northern Pacific Railroad. He began as a blacksmith and moved up to machinist. When the railroad left town, Jack explored his options working in Yellowstone Park and as a postman in Livingston. He then found his niche as a mechanic for the City of Livingston. He served in that capacity for many years, until his retirement.Jack loved to fly fish. He tied his own flies and was a masterful woodworker. He enjoyed hunting, tinkered with everything and could usually fix or improve anything mechanical. Jack was featured in the book, Whos Who of America for one of his "inventions."Jack is survived by his children, Rockie Bates and Deborah Hamilton. Grandchildren, Debbie Sue Bates, Alan Bates, Ron Postelwait and John Miller; great-grandchildren, Matthew Powers, James Miller, Rodney Powers and Izzy Powers. His sister, Peggy McCormick also survives him.Jack is predeceased by his parents, Noah and Thelma Bates, his wife Ruth who passed in 2004 and siblings, Johnny, Margaret, Lola and Bert.Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.