William E. “Bubba” Bates

Last Updated on October 13, 2025 by Cass County Communication Network

William E. “Bubba” Bates, 81, of Kokomo, passed away Friday, October 10, 2025, at Waterford Place Health Campus in Kokomo.  He was born June 26, 1944, in Logansport, Indiana to Elroy and Betty Jo (Berryman) Bates.  

Bubba worked as an operating engineer and began his career at RL Shutt and retired from Z&H Construction Co.  He was a member of Operating Engineers Local #103 for 61 years.

Bubba loved collecting, especially John Wayne memorabilia, Thomas Kincaid paintings and Eagles.  He was a huge New England Patriots fan.  After retiring, he spent most of his time at the Zimmerman Campground and wintering in Florida.   He was also a member of the Moose Lodge, Eagles Lodge and the American Legion.

Surviving family include his children, Anthony Wayne “Tony” Bates, Florida; Sherri Foster, Carthage, IN; his granddaughter Anna Conner, Shelbyville, IN; siblings, Carolyn Zimmerman, Kokomo; Pamela (Tim) Elpers, Walton, and Rev. Donnie (Cheryl) Bates of Greensburg.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.   Bubba is preceded in death by his parents, Elroy and Betty Jo Bates, his grandparents William A. “Papaw” and Muriel E. “Mimi” Berryman, and brother-in-law, Junior Zimmerman.

Visitation will take place from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston with Graveside Services to follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Walton IOOF Cemetery, Walton.

Memorial contributions may be made to We Care in his memory.   Murray Weaver Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com.