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Obituary
Cletus Bates, Sr., born on April 11, 1936, in Garrett, Kentucky, and passed away on August 16, 2026, in Flat Rock, Michigan, at the age of 90.
Cletus was a devoted family man who cherished spending time with his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. He was united in marriage to Mary Bates for 45 wonderful years, sharing a life together for 49 years filled with love and companionship.
His professional life was dedicated to his work as a Furnace Operator, a role in which he took great pride. However, it was his family that was his true passion and joy.
Cletus was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lula, as well as nine of his siblings. He leaves behind his loving wife, Mary; his children, Cletus Bates, Jr., Belinda Batten, Shannon (Greg) Selhoelter, Sherry Logsdon, and Shasta Bates; eight cherished grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Louise (James) Jernigan, along with many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember him.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A service to honor and celebrate Cletus's life will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Following the service, Cletus will be taken on a final ride by a customized Harley-Davidson Hearse, prior to entombment taking place in Michigan Memorial Park.
