Donald M. Bates Sr., 75, of Litchfield Township, passed away Friday, Sept. 28, 2007, in Berea.

He was born Dec. 5, 1931, in Morgantown, W.Va. Mr. Bates retired from GM in Parma in 1987 after 30 years working in transmission assembly. He served as a staff sergeant during the Korean War. He enjoyed going to Lorain County Speedway to work as a crew chief on his son’s race car and watching Western and war movies.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Goldie (nee Mullins) Bates, and sons, Alan Bates of Brunswick and Donald C. (Christina) Bates Jr. of Litchfield. He also was a loving grandfather to Kristen, Miranda and Donald P. Bates.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Christopher and Florence (nee Wines) Bates.

Service: 11 a.m. Thursday at Waite & Son Funeral Homes, Medina Chapel, 765 N. Court St.

Burial: Lagrange Cemetery.

Visiting hours: 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family.