Raymond K. Bates

Shushan, NY - Raymond K. Bates, 91, of Shushan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at his residence.

Born on June 23, 1934, in Cambridge, New York, Ray was the son of the late Fred and Barbara (Guber) Bates. He was raised and educated in Cambridge, where he developed strong ties to the community that would remain with him throughout his life.

Ray was the co-owner of Peabody & Bates, Inc. in Cambridge for many years, a business he helped build with dedication and pride. He remained active in the company until his retirement just a few years ago. Through his work, Ray became known for his steady presence, strong work ethic, and commitment to those he served.

Outside of his career, Ray found great enjoyment in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time on the course with friends. He also took pleasure in hunting, bowling, and trips to the casino. Ray especially enjoyed trying his luck with scratch-off lottery tickets, a pastime that brought him both excitement and amusement.

Ray is survived by his children, Patricia (Richard) Bentley of Cambridge, George Bates of Shushan, Linda Fifield of Manchester, Vermont, and Audrey (LeRoy) Hunt of Plattsburgh, New York. He is also survived by his siblings, Hiram Bates of Cambridge, Joe (Patti) Bates of Cambridge, Fred “Butch” (Trish) Bates of Shushan, Mary Muckle of North Bennington, Vermont, Ellen Hartenagle of Tennessee, and Shirley (John) Dence of White Creek. He leaves behind 12 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ray was predeceased by his wife, Donna Nemhauser-Bates, who passed away in 2021; his son, Raymond Kenny Bates, who passed away in 2022; his granddaughter, Morgan Bates, who passed away in 2022; and his sisters, Edie Peabody and Barbara Tremblay.

Services will be held privately.

Memorial contributions in memory of Ray may be made to the Salem Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 360, Salem, NY 12865, or the Shushan First Responders, P.O. Box 93, Shushan, NY 12873.

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Raymond, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ackley, Ross & Gariepy Funeral Home in Cambridge.

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