Richard s. Bates

Richard Skiem Bates was born October 19, 1955, to Charles and Ethelmae (Skiem) Bates in Litchfield, Minnesota.

Even as a youngster, Richard exhibited an aptitude and love for carpentry and anything mechanical. He possessed a unique ability and determination to build or fix literally anything he set his mind to. After graduating from Litchfield High School in 1974, Richard turned his passion for music and his skill of woodworking into launching a stereo loudspeaker business. He later transitioned the business into manufacturing unfinished furniture. Then came his long-term project of converting his commercial building into retail and office rental spaces. He has now put his tools to rest and is at peace. On June 1, 2026, Richard passed away at the CentraCare Hospital in St. Cloud, MN after a long-fought battle of lung disease.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved maternal grandparents George and Olive (Mayoue) Skiem, paternal grandparents Willard David and Mabel G. (Thon) Bates, his brother Ronald Bates and his uncle Harold Skiem. He is survived by his brother C. Robert (Bob) Bates, his three cousins: Jill (Skiem) von Czoernig, Paul Skiem and Craig Skiem, and nieces and nephews.

Plans for a memorial service are pending.