Richard C. Bates

Richard Currier Bates, 74, died on Sunday, February 25th, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Springfield, MA to the late Paul and Edna (Beard) Bates and grew up in East Longmeadow, MA. He graduated with a Bachelors degree in Fine Arts from UMass Amherst and a Masters in Criminal Justice from Anna Maria College. Rick served proudly in the U.S. Navy and worked as a Sergeant and D.A.R.E. officer for the East Longmeadow Police Department for more than 30 years, until his retirement.

In his free time, Rick was an avid nature photographer, with some of his best images being featured in the local newspaper. He was a stamp and Disney pin and coin collector. He also loved relaxing outside, watching movies and spending time with family. He especially enjoyed sitting on the cottage porch in Ogunquit, Maine watching life go by.

He is survived by his wife Lee Laferriere-Bates and his children; Richard C. Bates Jr., Noelle Bates and Gabrielle Stroud, her husband Brandon, as well as his grandchildren Aiden and Derek. He is also survived by his sister Linda Thorn, her husband Bob, niece Priscilla Gregory, mother in law Doris Laferriere, brother in law and sister in law, Michael and Sue Gougeon, and nephews Maxwell and Noah Gougeon.

In addition to his parents Paul and Edna Bates, Richard is also predeceased by his father in law Roland Laferriere.

He will be dearly missed by his family and community. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 29th from 4-7 PM at Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Rd., Wilbraham. Burial will be private.

In memoriam, please consider donating to an organization close to Richard’s heart, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 901 E St. NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20004.