1929 – 2015

LEWISTON — Alfred “Al” John Bates, 85, of Auburn, passed away Saturday, June 13, at Marshwood Center nursing home in Lewiston.

He was born on Dec. 20, 1929, in Greene, a son of the late John and Evelyn (Poole) Bates. He attended Greene and Monmouth schools.

After school, Al worked for Allied Control in Connecticut, until 1961, when he came back to Maine. He then worked for Ralston Purina for 10 years, and during that time, in April 1962, he married Betty Barton and the two started a family together. Al retired in 1995 after 28 years of service for Auburn Motor Sales (now Rowe).

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Betty; his daughter, Mary (Bates) Dawkins, whom he loved dearly, and her husband, Maurice Dawkins Sr. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Maurice Jr. and Dominique, who meant the world to him; as well as his brothers, Russell and his wife, Lois, Bernard and his significant other, Janice, and Carl and his wife, Marilyn; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a sister, Marion Blaisdell and her husband, Ervin; and a brother, Walter and his wife, Esther.

The family wishes to thank all the folks at Marshwood Center for the tender loving care that they gave to Al.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.