James E Bates
James E. Bates age 85 of Elmwood, died Saturday June 22, 2013 at the Heritage of Elmwood Nursing Home in Elmwood.
Jim was born May 27, 1928 on the home farm, Township of Weston, rural Elmwood. He was the son of Edward and Mabel (Denning) Bates and grew up on the family farm. Jim graduated from Dunn Co. School of Agriculture, “Dunn Co. Aggie" in 1946. Jim married Ilene Fedie October 25, 1949 at St. Henry's Catholic Church in Eau Galle. Jim farmed on the Bates home farm until 1951, when he purchased his own farm just down the road from the home farm. Jim & Ilene farmed and raised their family there until 1984 when they moved into Elmwood. Jim continued to farm until 1991 when they sold the farm.
Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Jim was a principled man who was family focused, fun loving and his faith was very important to him. Jim and Ilene enjoyed going to the casino; he enjoyed taking pictures and videos of family celebrations; making things for his grandchildren, and spending time with family and friends.
Jim is survived by his wife Ilene of 63 years; four daughters, Linda (Jim) Kitchner of Elmwood; Susan Bates of St. Paul, MN; Lori (Arnie) Nelson of Baraboo; Mary Bates of Elmwood; Five grandchildren, Jeffrey (Katie) Kitchner of Hudson; Jennifer (Dustin) Timm of Wilson; Derek Nelson of Madison: Tara and Tiffany Nelson both of Baraboo; two great grandchildren, Remy Kitchner and Macie Timm; a sister-in-law Juanita Bates of Elmwood; a special nephew, Dean Whitwam.
He is preceded in death by is parents, three sisters, Agnes Feuker, Marie Styer and Angeline Wolf; four brothers, LaVerne, Clarence, Lawrence and Charles.