Obituary of Lewis Gray Bates

 

Lewis Gray Bates 

November 9, 1950 – August 11, 2024

 

Lew was born in Calgary, Alberta on November 9, 1950. He grew up on a large farm in Strathmore, Alberta before moving to British Columbia to become an RCMP officer. He spent most of his career in Prince George, Fort Nelson, Cranbrook, Dawson Creek and Fort St John before retiring in Taylor BC in a beautiful log home in the Peace River Valley.

Lew passed away on August 11, 2024 while horseback riding near his home. He passed away doing something he loved, in a place he loved, riding with someone close to his heart and his dog by his side.

Lew Bates lived his life guided by his passions – hunting, gunsmithing, his dogs and horses, and of course, his family and friends. 

His friendships were forged on mountain passes, long trails and successful (and unsuccessful) hunts. He would always pick up the phone to pass along a hunting story, talk guns, or just check in. A hunter through and through, Lew was committed to passing along his knowledge and love of the wild to his kids and grandkids as well as many people he shared the trail with.

Over 50 years, Lew built a reputation as a fine gunsmith. He leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship that was shared everyday with his community, whether through conversations, at a gun show, a stop at Corlane’s, or a visit to his gunshop at home. 

He built a home on this land that embodied his way of life. He always said he was born 100 years too late, but for those of us he left behind, we’re forever grateful to have had him as the cornerstone of our lives and he will be forever missed. 

A celebration of life was held for Lew with his close friends and family at the home he built. He will be remembered and missed by all who knew him.

 

 

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