Michael A. Bates
Passed on July 9, 2023
Resident of Randolph, MA
Michael A. Bates, 75, of Randolph, MA, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2023, surrounded by family.
He leaves behind his soulmate and wife of 43 years, Karen (McHarrie) Bates. Proud father of Persephone (Sephi) Alves and her husband David of Swansea, MA. The best Papa to Sydney and Ethan Alves, who he adored. He will be sadly missed by his brother-in-law Jack McHarrie and his wife Janet (Stymest). Also survived by several cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many close friends he considered family. Predeceased by his mother, Elizabeth (Doherty) and his father Joseph Bates of Fall River, MA.
Mike was a graduate of Coyle High School in Taunton and Bellevue Hospital New York where he became a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). He spent his career caring for others and worked at local hospitals including Truesdale in Fall River, NE Sinai in Stoughton, St. Margaret’s in Dorchester, and St. Elizabeth’s in Brighton.
Prior to retirement in 2018, he worked 25 years at Tufts Medical Center, where he spent most of his time caring for premature infants in the NICU and was loved and respected by co-workers who remember his as not only a dedicated RRT but a kind and generous gentleman who was always willing to help. He was an active member and delegate to the Mass. Society for Repiratory Care and the American Association of Respiratory Care.
He was an avid Parrot-head and travelled the world to see Jimmy Buffett. He was rarely seen out of “Buffett” attire and truly embodied the beachcomber style. If he was at a concert, you could find him enjoying time with Sydney and Ethan in Wells, ME or relaxing in Can Garden Bay Tortola, BVI. He was a Jaguar enthusiast and could be seen driving his beloved ragtop, attending club meetings, social events, car shows, and publishing a newsletter. He loved all things Irish and the color green. No wonder St. Patrick’s Day was his favorite holiday.
He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. The world has truly lost one of the best. As Jimmy Buffett sings, “Some of it’s magic some of it’s tragic, but I had a good life all the way.”
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 from 5p-9p at Granite Links Ross Ballroom, 100 Quarry Hill Dr, Quincy. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Cam Neely Foundation, 170 Milk St., Boston, MA 02109. Please designate the “House” as recipient.
I’ll dearly miss my buddy. Mike was one of the nicest men I’ve ever known.RIP
Sail on sail on sailor
My sincerest condolences on Mike’s passing. I am a retired RN from the NICU at Tufts and worked with Mike for about 24 years. He was an amazing person, kind hearted, funny and an amazing RT. I was always happy to see he was my RT for the shift. I was so sad to hear about his passing. He will be remembered. Rest in Peace Mike.
When l came in to work in the morning at Tufts nicu, I was always happy that Mike was our RT for the shift. He always had a good attitude and was happy to help all RNs. We miss him.
So, so sorry for the loss of this kind and gentle soul! He was such a gentleman and a pleasure to work with! Karen and family you are in my thoughts and prayers
So sorry, Karen about Mike’s passing. Wishing you brighter days. May his memory be for a blessing. Regards, Sharon.
So sorry to learn about Mike’s passing . He was a great Respiratory Therapist and mentor to many . Karen and family I am so sorry for your loss.
Dear Karen, Patricia and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family on Michael 's passing. May he rest in peace in the eternal light of the Almighty, for eternity.
Pat & Sean Corwin (med-31)
Mike and I worked together at Tufts Medical and it was an honor knowing and working with him.I learned a lot from Mike and the most important thing was to respect each person you interact with and always give a helping hand if needed. This world lost great guy.