Philip Bates, age 67, of Knoxville, Illinois died at 8:45 A.M. on Sunday, July 26, 2020, at his home in Knoxville, Illinois.
Philip was born on May 1, 1953, in Galesburg, Illinois the son of Elmer and Christine (Shadis) Bates. He graduated from Costa Catholic High School in Galesburg, Illinois the class of 1971. He married Sandy, they had two children, Elizabeth and Gregory. He then married Cristine M. Stewart on March 15, 1986, in Knoxville, Illinois.
Surviving is his wife, Cristine Bates of Knoxville, Illinois, four children: Allison Bates of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Hannah (Joe Dreshar) Bates of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Will Bates of Springfield, Illinois and Michael Bates of Knoxville, Illinois; two siblings: Roger (Sharon) Bates of New Windsor, Illinois and Joyce (Tom) Waters of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
He worked as a Railroad Conductor for BNSF for over 40 years. He enjoyed listening to music, playing his guitar and watching F1 racing with his family.
Cremation rites will be accorded. There will be a celebration of life held at a later date. The family has entrusted the Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory with his wishes. Memorials may be made to the Knoxville Music Boosters. Online condolences or expressions of sympathy may be made through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
