Community Remembers Oscar Bates

Oscar K. Bates, 95, a lifelong resident of Upton, died at home on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013 after a period of declining health. His wife of 62 years, Christine (Whitney) Bates, died in 2001.

Mr. Bates was born in Upton, one of 10 children of Daniel H. and Ina M. (Pond) Bates. He was a World War II Navy veteran and a founding member of the George L. Wood VFW Post in Upton. He worked in construction and manufacturing, including at the former Kartiganer Hat Co. in West Upton, and enjoyed deep sea fishing, gardening, and traveling with his family to many Caribbean islands.

He leaves one son, Richard K. Bates of Upton; a daughter, Linda M. Johnson and her husband Bruce of Millbury; a brother, Harold Bates of Westborough; two sisters, Vivian Grimley of Auburn and Arlene Consoletti of Colorado; five grandchildren, Steven, Kevin, and Jill St. Cyr and Candace White, all of Connecticut, and Ryan Johnson of Auburn; four great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. He was also the father of the late Beverly A. St. Cyr.

Private graveside services with military honors will be in Maplewood Cemetery in Upton at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours.  

If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Upton Fire & EMS Association, Box 580, or to the George L. Wood VFW Post, Box 472, both Upton 01568; or to the VNA Care Network, 333 Turnpike Road, Southborough 01772.