James Bates

James F. Bates, age, 86 of Fitchburg and Sun Prairie, passed away peacefully September 9, 2025 surrounded by his loving family at Charter Senior Living in Verona, Wisconsin.

Jim was born on June 6, 1939 in Madison, Wisconsin, the son of Fred and Selma( Benish) Bates.

Jim graduated from Mt. Horeb High school in 1958.

He was awarded the "Masters of the Grand Cross of Colors" on June 16, 1967. He retired from Madison Metro after 25 years. He loved playing his accordion and following the Green Bay Packers , UW football and basketball, and the Bucks.

He married Georgette Fisher Koch on November 3, 1973 at the United Methodist church, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.

He was active in his retirement community serving as board treasurer for two terms, helping with projects in the community, and organizing the dine out group for 12 years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Georgette (GeeGee) , daughter Susan Sowinski (Mike), son Jeffrey Bates and grandchildren Madeline Sowinski ( Jack Ryan), Kellen Sowinski, Derek Bates and Jeremy Jones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Sylvia Narveson Bates, sister Jeanne Judkins and special parents Carl and Honsie Buechner.

The family will hold a private burial at Sun Prairie Memory Gardens in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.

The family would like to give special thanks to Charter Senior Living Verona and Agrace Hospice for all their care.

In lieu of flowers please give donations to Agrace Hospice, Fitchburg, WI.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie

(608) 837-9054