Leslie J. Bates, Sr., 68, Heavy Equipment Operator for Herk Excavating Company

He was born July 2, 1937 in Vermilion and was a life long resident.

He worked as a heavy equipment operator for Herk Excavating Company, Vermilion, retiring in 1994. He was a social member of Vermilion VFW, Vermilion Fish and Game, and he enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and his grandchildren.

Survivors include daughters, Tammy Herchler of Vermilion, and Susan McCune of Wadsworth; sons, Leslie J. Bates of Lorain, Christopher Bates of Woodland Park, and, Eric Bates of Milan; 20 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and a sister, Pat Bates of Birmingham.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Bruce and Joan (nee Chmielewski) Bates, brother, Ed Bates and sister, Anne Hauff.

Friends may call Sunday, November 20, 2005 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio.