Harold Bates Obituary

Funeral services celebrating the life of Harold Glenn Bates, 93, of West Monroe, Louisiana will be held at 2:00 P.M., Friday, August 1, 2025 in the chapel of Mulhearn Funeral Home, West Monroe with Dr. Mark Fenn and Dr. Woods Watson officiating. Interment will follow immediately after at Kilpatrick’s Serenity Gardens Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., Thursday, July 31, 2025 at Mulhearn Funeral Home, West Monroe.

Harold was born on August 13, 1932, in Monroe, Louisiana and entered the gates of heaven on July 28, 2025 surrounded by the loving embrace of his family.

Harold Glenn Bates, a man whose life was marked by unwavering service, faith, and love. Harold passed away surrounded by the loving embrace of his family, leaving behind a legacy rich with honor, kindness, and dedication.

Born with a quiet strength and an enduring spirit, Harold committed himself to the call of duty early in life. After earning his ROTC commission from Northeast Louisiana University in 1954, he served active duty in South Korea, demonstrating integrity and leadership in every step of his military journey. In 1961, he was called back to active duty to help activate Fort Polk in Louisiana, serving as Assistant Provost Marshal, a pivotal role during a crucial time. His service continued as an active reservist until his retirement in 1980, culminating a distinguished career with twenty-six years of combined active and reserve military service. His dedication to excellence was reflected in his advanced military education, including studies at the Military Police Officer Basic, Company Grade, Command and Staff, and the National War College.

When Harold transitioned into civilian life, his commitment to hard work and quiet leadership never wavered. For thirty and a half years, he served as a Senior Operating Engineer at Allied Plastics in Baton Rouge, earning the admiration of colleagues and leading by example in every endeavor.

Beyond his professional and military achievements, Harold lived a life grounded in faith and community. As a deacon, he faithfully served his church and inspired others with his humility and deep convictions. He also poured his heart into Bayou Darbonne Camping, where he was the beloved owner and manager. There, he created a haven for families and nature lovers alike. A place of warmth, reflection, and lifelong memories.

But Harold’s proudest titles were husband, father, and grandfather. He was the cornerstone of his family, offering gentle wisdom, unconditional love, and steadfast support. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him those who felt the firm kindness of his handshake, heard the thoughtful cadence of his voice, and knew the comfort of his steady presence.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-nine years, Carolyn Dreasler Bates; parents, Oscar and Celestine Bates; daughter-in-law, Margaret Wilhite; and brother-in-law, Sidney McKay.

Those left to honor and cherish his memory are his children, Daniel Glenn Bates, David E. Bates and wife, Lisa, and Mary Charlene Bates Christoff and husband, Douglas; grandson, Andrei Christoff; great grandchildren, Ofelia D. Christoff and Lilith A. Christoff; and, sister-in-law, Mary Jane Dreasler McKay.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Harold may be made to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, 7200 Desaird Street Monroe, Louisiana.