Jack Bates, age 86, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025.

Visitation with family will be 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, at Webb Shinkle Mortuary 200 S. Tracy, Clearwater, and funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Clearwater United Methodist Church, 130 N. 1st, Clearwater.

Upon graduating from Friends University with a bachelor's degree in agriculture, Jack worked for the Agricultural Soil Conservation Service. He then became manager of Quality Coop Oil Company of Clearwater. In 1975 he left there to farm full-time. At age 65, he adopted new farming practices and embraced technology well ahead of industry peers. He was truly an innovative and creative farmer. Beyond his passion for farming, Jack was an active member of the Clearwater United Methodist Church and Lions Club, contributing service to his fellow man in a variety of ways.

He was preceded in death by parents, James and Ina (Montz) Bates, and siblings, Artis Morris, Arlene Bates, and Jerry Bates.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol (Stinson) Bates of Viola; children, Dr. Brent (Kay) Bates of Sedalia, Mo., Bryan (Leslie) Bates of Conway Springs, and Douglas (Micoli) Bates of Norwich; grandchildren, Jackson Bates, Talan (Ashlynn) Shinn, Alyssa Pauly, Brandon (Elise) Bates, Alaina (Taylor) Gibbs, Raina Bates, and Karli Bates; great grandchildren, Tayven Shinn and Addison Bates; and sister-in-law, Donna Bates of Conway Springs.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Clearwater United Methodist Church, 130 N. 1st, Clearwater, KS 67026.