Obituary of Douglas Royden Bates
It is with profound sadness that the family of Douglas Royden Bates announces his passing which occurred on Saturday, October 19, 2019, at the age of 67 years.
Doug was born in Sus, NB, on March 26, 1952, to Royden and Bessie Bates. He was raised in Long Point, NB, and graduated from Belleisle Regional High School in 1970. He was Valedictorian of his graduating class and was awarded the Beaverbrook Scholarship, before earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at UNB Fredericton in 1975. He then moved to Calgary, AB, where he settled and raised his family, working as a petroleum engineer and ascending to senior executive levels. Doug retired in 2009, to his native New Brunswick, where he reconnected with his longtime school friend, Bonnie and married her in 2013.
Doug was a kind, articulate man and was well known for his large collection of art and books, which he proudly displayed. He was also very particular and paid great attention to detail. He enjoyed travelling and experiencing new cultures, but was most content at home enjoying a good book, film or tending to his garden.
Doug had an excellent memory and was always quick to “correct” you on details missing from your stories. He loved reminiscing and was a great story teller. Doug could sometimes come off as being a serious man, but he had a witty sense of humour that could make you crack-up and cringe all at once.
Doug’s life revolved around his family. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife: Bonnie Ganong; cherished daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren: Megan and David Lindsay (Ada), Jenny and Andy Matthews (Emeline and Mackenna) and Tracey and Bradley Eisan (Benjamin); siblings: Ruth Ganong, Marilyn Mitton, George Bates (Ilyne), and Kathy Markey (Carl); stepsons, step daugthers-in-law and grandchildren: Jason and Christine Ahearn (Rachael and Sean), and Patrick and Tara Ahearn (Desmond, Rowan and Millie); brother-in-law: Ronnie Ganong (Susan); sisters-in-law: Paulette Boyd, Cathy Morrell (Fraser), and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Royden and Bessie Bates.
Arrangements are under the care of Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, (849-2119). Respecting Doug’s wishes, there will be no funeral. A “Celebration of Life” will take place on December 7, 2019 at 2:00 PM at the Bates Barn, 918 Route 850, Long Point, NB. Those wishing to remember Doug by way of donation, the family would appreciate you considering Kiersteadville Cemetery or a memorial of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.kennebecasisfh.com
Your smile, your touch, your laughter is gone
Your memory and love will be wrapped around my heart forever.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Douglas
Royden
Bates 1952 2019..
Death notice for the town of: Kennebecasis-Valley, Province: Nouveau-Brunswick