Joe Dimaggio Bates

Mr. Joe Dimaggio Bates, 68, of Clinton, Ark., passed away Thursday, June 28, 2012 at Ozark Health Medical Center Clinton, Ark. He was born June 30, 1943 in Choctaw Community Clinton, Ark. to the late Jess C. and Marie (Bradley) Bates. He was a retired carpenter for Bridge Construction, housing, and the Van Buren County Special School. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers, Paul and Bill Bates. He is survived by the love of his life of 47 years together, Karen G. (Bradford) Bates, two sons, Donnie and wife Maryah Bates, and Chris and wife Sara Bates, five grandsons, Kendall, Jordan, Landon, Logan and Luke Batesthree sisters, Jesse Lee Pruss of North Little Rock, Ark.; Johnnie and husband Jimmy Golden of Sherwood, Ark.; and Fern Floyd of Clinton, Ark.; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends. Pallbearers: Greg Pruss, Lanny Bates, Brent Bates, Brian Golden, Timmy Pruss, Stanley Pruss, and Todd Bates. Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday, July 1, 2012 at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home Chapel Clinton, Ark. Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Monday, July 2, 2012 at Choctaw Church of Christ with Pastor David Cook officiating. Burial will follow at Hunter Hill Cemetery. Donations can be made to: Ozark Health Foundation Fund for the new Chemo Unit Chairs P.O. Box 74 Clinton, Ark. 72031, The Hunter Hill Cemetery Fund, Van Buren County Special School Thrift and Gift Store. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Clinton, Ark. Online guest book: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.