Gary L. Bates Sr.
June 18, 1937 ~ April 5, 2026
Born in: Webster, South Dakota
Resided in: Miller, South Dakota
Gary Bates, Sr., 88, of Miller, passed away Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Highmore Health.
Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 10, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church in Miller with Rev. Allison Galbreath and Roger Day officiating. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service.
Gary was born on June 18, 1937, in Webster, South Dakota, to Harold and Leona (Siebrecht) Bates. He grew up with strong values of hard work, service, and community that would guide him throughout his life.
Gary proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959. Following his service, he returned to South Dakota, where he built a life centered on family, work, and community.
On August 7, 1964, Gary was united in marriage to Barbara Hanks. Together, they made their home in Miller, South Dakota, where they raised their three children: Gary Jr., Bridgett, and Jamie.
Gary dedicated many years of his career to Ree Electric, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. Outside of work, he found joy in giving back to his community, spending time on the golf course, and, most importantly, being with family and friends. He will be remembered for his steady presence, generous spirit, and the care he showed to those around him.
Gary is survived by his wife, Barb; son, Gary Jr. and daughter, Megan (Jason) Weber; daughter, Bridgett (Charles) Augspurger and their five children: Austin (Amanda), Andrew, Jack (Brooke), Nelson (Molly), and Grant; and son, Jamie (Autumn) and their three children: Elise, Cruz, and Max; eight great grandchildren: Kingston, Kiya, Sophia, Wells, Kit, Ace, Sonny, and Atlee; two brothers, Morris (Pat) Bates and Charles (Chuck) Bates; and one sister, Emily (Jack) Holm.
Gary’s life was a reflection of quiet dedication, service, and love for his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Reck Funeral Home of Miller has been entrusted with Gary’s arrangements.
Services
Visitation: Friday, April 10, 2026 10:00 am
First United Methodist Church
610 East 4th Ave
Miller, South Dakota 57362
Memorial Service: Friday, April 10, 2026 11:00 am
First United Methodist Church
610 East 4th Ave
Miller, South Dakota 57362
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Rest in peace oh the memories when
I saw you at Kessler’s and at Rexall
Oh the fun we had
Gary’s sense of humor, his smile, and his dedication to family and community is how I will remember him. Stories of him will become legend! He had a full life, he will be missed. RIP.
God’s blessings, Elaine Cary
He was a good guy, used to try to help me with my bowling, always took time to answer questions. Prayers to the family
Barb and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Gary was such a nice man, who truly cared about the community and the people in it. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Barb,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this time. He always had a positive outlook on life. He will be missed.
We are so sorry for your loss! Praying you will be blessed with many good memories!
Deepest condolences to all of the Bates family. Thinking of you at this difficult time. God Bless!
Barb and family:
My heart goes out to all of you with Gary’s death. He was a friend and a faithful Christian. I have many fond memories of him and Barb. I hope you all are doing well. Love and Prayers.