Velma L. Bates

Velma L. Bates, 89 of Grand Ridge passed away Thursday evening, March 9^th 2017 at the Ottawa Pavilion.

A visitation will be held Sunday from 4-7 PM at Winterrowd Funeral Home in Streator and Monday from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.  Funeral services will be held Monday at 10:30 AM at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church with Pastor William Callister officiating. 

Burial will be in Grand Ridge Cemetery.

Velma was born on July 12, 1927 in Flanagan to Tjark L. and Emma (Koopman) Rients. 

She married James E. Bates on November 26, 1944 by the Rev. E. V. Schroeder at St. Petri Lutheran Church in Flanagan.  He preceded her in death on January 23, 1983.

She is survived by her daughters Linda Park of Streator and Carol (Dean) Stimpert of Toluca, 10 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandson and 1 great-great grandchild expected in July, sister-in-law, Magdalena Rients of Somonauk and several nieces and nephews.

Velma is preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter, Jo Ann Pagan, son-in-law, Eugene “Gene” Park, brothers, Lester and Vernon Rients and sisters, Margerine Decker and Florence Bates.   

Velma was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.  She began the Woman’s Widow Group also known as O.W.L.S. which met monthly for over 20 years and is ongoing.  She was employed at a medical doctor’s office as a cashier for many years.  She enjoyed traveling, crocheting, reading and her flower garden.  Velma especially loved her family and grandchildren.  

Memorials may be made to the Grand Ridge Fire Department or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.