Eric Michael Bates

Eric Michael Bates was born January 24, 1962, to Cecil and Marna Beth (Johnson) Bates in Greenville, Texas. It was there that he began several lifelong friendships. During those years, Eric’s imagination took hold, and he could often be seen wearing a towel as a cape as he pretended he was a superhero named E-Man. He once stopped a truck in traffic using his superpowers. When Eric was in elementary school, his family moved to Stigler, Oklahoma. His friendships made there continued until his death, often speaking to those friends several times per week, Eric was a naturally talented athlete, excelling at every sport he played. Eric was the quarterback, safety and punter for his high school football team. He was as determined as he was talented, spending his spare time practicing. His love of sports remained with him throughout his life. He was an encyclopedia of sports teams, players and coaches. Eric graduated from Stigler High School in 1981, and attended Connors State before beginning a career in the natural gas industry that took him throughout the world to places such as Mexico, Algeria and Kazakhstan. Years later he returned to Stigler and was self employed before his health prevented him from working. Eric became a full time stay at home parent to his daughter Cecily, often bringing cappuccinos to her teachers and having pizzas delivered for her snack days, Before that, Eric coached his stepson Michael in basketball, football and baseball. His son Adam described his father as being ultra-competitive and unconditionally loving and supportive. Eric survived multiple severe health problems that defied medical technology. He did so with incredible courage and never once complaining. He is survived by his wife; Delaina Bates. His son Adam Bates and Brittany of California, his daughter Cecily Bates the home, and his stepson Michael Dowdy of Checotah whom he raised as his son. He is also survived by his stepson Luke and Lindsay Ely of Finksburg, Maryland and his stepdaughter Rachel Ely of Hanover, Pennsylvania. His grandchildren; Amelia, AJ and Arya of California, and step grandchildren; Jensen, Oliver, Jayce and Ezra. His Mother; Marna Bates of Stigler, 1 sister; Stephanie Peters and husband Bob of Stigler. 1 Brother; Brian "Buzzy" Bates of Stigler. Sister-in-laws; Connie Bates of Van Buren, Jackie Bates of Stigler. Mother-in-law; Linda Dowdy of Checotah. He was preceded in death by his father; Cecil Bates; 2 brothers; Mack and Jack Bates. Father-in-law; Doug Dowdy, and his dog Stretch. Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at the R.E. Shearwood Memorial Chapel with Mr. Kenny Whitson reading the eulogy. Pallbearers will be Jeff Beach, Randy Mayhall, Bobby Coyle, Kenny Whitson, Mike Fioretti, David Spears. Honorary pallbearers will be every kid he ever coached. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery at Checotah.

Eric Michael Bates

January 24, 1962 - March 31, 2025