Robert "Bob" Bates

Robert “Bob” Bates, 97, was lovingly called to Heaven while peacefully surrounded by his family on May 15, 2026.

He was born as the 5th of six brothers on December 10, 1928, in Louisville.

He graduated from Dupont Manual High School class of 1947 & ½. He was a part of their 1947 baseball state championship team.

Bob was a veteran of the Korean War, serving aboard the Navy destroyer USS Tingey from 1951-1953. He retired from Bellsouth (later AT&T) after forty years of service as a telephone lineman and manager. After retirement, he continued with telephone wiring installation and communication support services.

Bob was always the first to lend a helping hand. He was known for his generous spirit, warm smile and compassionate heart.

He was an avid sports fan, especially for the Cincinnati Reds and the University of Kentucky basketball.

His passion for gardening was reflected in the beautiful flowers he grew and the bountiful vegetable harvest he shared with his neighbors.

Bob and his family enjoyed fishing, boating, and water sports at Cumberland and Dale Hollow lakes. Other days, he was actively playing and coaching baseball, as well as being involved in softball & bowling.

He was predeceased in death by his loving wife Dolores of 67 years and his elder brothers.

He is survived by his daughter Carol Rogers (Jeff), his son Kenneth (Emily), his two grandchildren Stefanie LaRue and Robert Taylor, and sole great grandchild, Chaise Beetz. He is also survived by his brother William (Bill).

His gentle nature was felt by many. He will continue to live in our hearts and in the lives of many family and friends that he touched.

Visitation will be from 4PM to 8 PM, May 24th, 2026, and from 9 AM until the time of the memorial service at 10:30 AM, May 26th, 2026, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40243. Burial will follow at Louisville Memorial Gardens West, 4400 Dixie Highway, Shively, KY 40216.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Knowledge Center on Deafness, Inc., c/o KCDHH, Attention: Memorial Donations: 632 Versailles Road, Frankfort, KY 40601. or Hosparus Health.

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