Robert Spencer Bates Jr.

Robert Spencer Bates Jr., 82, passed away on July 31, 2020. He was the son of the late Robert S. Bates Sr and Kathleen Schaaf . He was born in Youngstown, OH on July 26, 1938. Robert had been a resident of Highlands County for 21 years , formerly living in Ohio. Robert served in the US Navy and worked in the steel mills. He is survived by his loving wife Cathie of 41 years; son -  Timothy Bates (Brenda) of Austintown, OH; step-sons -William Welling (Tracey) of Lakeland, FL; David Welling (Reylynn) of Youngstown, OH; Kenneth Welling of Niles, OH; step-daughter – Christina Marsh (Ray) of Pompano Beach, FL; brother – Paul Bates (Mayo) of Berlin, OH. Surviving are also 19 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter Kathy L. Hawley.

Arrangements entrusted to:

Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home

4001 Sebring Parkway

Sebring, FL 33870

Online condolences may be left at:

www.stephensonnelsonfh.com