Richard “Dick” Bates

Richard “Dick” Dean Bates, 79, of Zanesville, died at 2:02 P.M. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 9, 1947, in Caldwell, a son of the late Richard Roderick and Vera (Tracey) Bates. Dick served our country proudly as a Veteran of the United States Army and worked as a coalminer for almost twenty years. When he wasn’t hard at work he loved taking pride in his lawn work and flower garden. Dick was Catholic by faith and he enjoyed Amish Auctions, taking long rides, and loved watching deer and squirrels. His favorite quote was “this road will take you anywhere you wanna go.”
He is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Loraine (Snode) Bates whom he married on November 27, 1970; his children, Rachael (Rodney) Roush, Mary (John) Lambert, John Bates, Sarah (Lonnie) Kennedy, and Timothy Bates; sixteen grandchildren, and two great grandchildren are on the way; sister, Kay Baker; and his special furry friend and faithful companion, Star.
In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sisters, Nancy and Sheila; brother, Randy; and an infant sister, Sue Bates.
Friends and family may call from 1:00 -3:00 P.M. and 5:00-7:00 P.M. on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE where funeral services will be held at 7:00 P.M. with Father Stephen Ondrey as Celebrant. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, in Crooksville, OH. with full Military honors accorded to him by the United States Army in conjunction with the VFW George Selsam post 1058.
To send a note of condolence, or to order flowers or comfort food: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com, follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at (740)452-4551.