Paul "Doc" Eugene Bates

Paul “Doc” Eugene Bates age 93 of Fairfield, passed away surrounded by his family Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at the Jefferson County Health Center.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at Behner Funeral Home with Pastors Danny Cary and Dianne Beghtol officiating.  Burial will follow the service in Memorial Lawn Cemetery.  Those attending the service are required to wear a mask, due to family health issues.  Masks will be provided at the door.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Christian Church, Noah’s Ark or EveryStep Hospice.  Cards may be mailed to Patricia Bates, 211C Southgate Circle, Fairfield, Iowa 52556.

Paul was born March 4, 1929, in Jefferson County to Clifford and Eva “Bernice” (Kane) Bates.  He married Patricia “Pat” Evelyn Courtney on November 27, 1949.  They were blessed with 72 years of marriage.

Paul lived in Jefferson County all his life.  He farmed and was a salesman for Yoder Feed.  After retirement he continued staying busy by doing snow removal and mowing yards, which he did until he was 89.   Paul was a member of the First Christian Church, Odd Fellows and coffee club.  He enjoyed restoring tractors and playing Bones or also known as rhythm bones. Paul and Pat were avid dancers, loved playing cards & wintered in Texas 22 years.

Paul will be missed by his wife, Patricia Bates of Fairfield; two daughters, Brenda (Darrel) Bisgard and Paula (Mike) Adam both of Fairfield; 9 grandchildren, Renee (Mike) Telfer, Troy (Angie) Bisgard, Nathan Roland, Jeremy (Kelsie) Roland, Charissa (Corey) Hickenbottom, Brian (Tracy) Adam, Aaron (Shelby) Adam, Angie (Brock) Haines and Briale Kessel (Honorary grandchild); 14 great grandchildren; and beloved cat, Albi.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Bernice; brother, Merle Bates; and sister, Edith Baker.