Michael E. Bates

March 30, 1948  -  May 28, 2026

Michael E. Bates, 78, passed away on May 28, 2026. He was born on March 30, 1948, in South Bend, IN, to Donald and Gladys Bates.

Michael graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1966.  Michael attended the University of Maryland after he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 5 years.

On June 8, 2002, he married the love of his life, Delana Miller.

Michael was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and “partner” to so many. He was a proud and dedicated car sales representative for Romy Hammes from 1973 to 1976, Bill Hanson from 1976 to 1978, Basney Ford from 1978 to 1999, and Gurley Leep Automotive from 1999 until his retirement in 2016. He was a longtime member and Deacon of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. He loved Notre Dame football, making the best cocktails, and was known to be generous and caring to everyone he knew and crossed paths with. Michael was especially known for his signature chant, which could be heard at every tailgate, good restaurant, and celebration- “HOYA, HOYA, HOYA!” Michael loved adventure and made a point to make a life worth living and celebrating. He will be deeply missed.

Michael is survived by his wife, Delana Bates; his children, Tonia Bates, Tara Bates, and Jennifer Miller; six grandchildren, Tiler Pangallo, Tailer Forrest, Collin Gomilla, Ashlynn Gomilla, Dionne Gomilla, and Bria Gomilla; and two great-grandchildren, Analaia Martinez and Eris Wilson, with one more great-grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his stepsister, Margie Shroff.

He was preceded in death by his sister Mary Bates, who passed away in 1947, and his parents.

Michael will be remembered for his service, devotion to family, and the love he shared with those closest to him.

A visitation for Michael will be held on Friday June 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, in Hahn Funeral Home, 505 w 8thstreet, Mishawaka. The funeral service will take place the following day, Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 1:00PM, in Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 805 S 29th St, South Bend. A private burial is set to take place.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Michael to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in South Bend. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael, please visit our floral store.

Services

Visitation

Friday, June 5, 2026, 4:00PM - 7:00PM

Hahn Funeral Home

505 W 8th Street

Mishawaka, IN 46544

Service

Saturday, June 6, 2026, 1:00PM

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

805 S. 29th St.

South Bend, IN 46615

Added 06/08/2026 0745  GMS  

https://www.hahnfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Michael-E-Bates?obId=48555281