John "Paul" George Bates

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of John “Paul” George Bates at the Parry Sound Hospital on March 21, 2026, at the age of 81. He was born to John “Ross” and June Alice Bates, on May 12th, 1944, in Welland, Ontario. He was one of two children and is survived by sister Alice “Sharon” Alderdice of North York. For many years the family resided in St. Catharines and enjoyed summers in Muskoka. Paul is also survived by his devoted and loving wife of 49 years Hilda. His sons Ross and Chris, daughter's in-law Amy and Alison and grandchildren Abigail, Wyatt and Casey. He had many nieces and nephews and extended family for whom he had great affection.

Upon graduation from the University of Windsor in 1967 he worked as an auditor with Price Waterhouse, as Assistant Comptroller at the St. Catharines Standard and in sales with Mutual Life until 1988. He obtained his teaching qualifications at Brock University/Daemen College simultaneously and York University conferred a B.Ed in 1994. He spent two years teaching in Toronto and moved on to Niagara South where he taught at numerous schools over 18 years. The last 12 years of his teaching career were shared between E.L. Crossley and Grimsby Secondary School. Paul was well respected by his colleagues and students alike.

Paul’s devotion and dedication to religion and the church gave him great purpose. He was baptized at the family home on South Dr. in St. Catharines by the minister of Knox Presbyterian Church. He was a long-standing member of the congregation at Knox and eventually an Elder. In retirement Paul moved to Muskoka where he became very involved as a part of the congregation and as a volunteer with Knox Presbyterian in Port Carling. His presence and contributions will be greatly missed.

Paul had many interests and always took time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. He was an avid reader who explored a broad array of subject matter. He would often be found relaxing on the dock with his current book and a bowl of treats. He always had a project on the go, keeping his mind and hands busy. He embarked on many canoe trips across Ontario with childhood friends with whom he always remained close. He loved to spend time with his sister Sharie reminiscing of their many fond memories they shared together. The time he shared with family and friends was something he cherished greatly always making an effort to spend time with the ones he loved.

Paul’s motivation to become a teacher was partly to be able to spend more time with his wife and two sons. The family was able to spend summers in Muskoka and Paul always found time to keep the boys busy. He was eager to pass on to them the knowledge, traits and skills he was constantly honing. Paul was constantly active in a plethora of sports and activities. To name a few: cycling, sailing, paddling, tennis, golf, x-country/waterskiing, snowboarding, darts, shuffleboard, euchre, Mexican Train, WISE and of course pickleball.

Pickleball quickly became a sport that Paul dedicated much of his time to and where he found a group of friends that were like family to him. He was affectionately known as “Pickleball Paul”. He was very involved with pickleball in both Milford Bay and MacTier. He was the main organizer of pickleball at the MacTier arena and built a loyal following. The friendships Paul made in the pickleball community were near and dear to him.

Paul undoubtedly left his mark and touched the lives of many people. His smile was contagious, and his wit was quick. He had a gentle soul, his kindness, loyalty and genuine interest for others was unparalleled. He had elan and vigour that did not rest. He made the most of every day and every situation. He was a remarkable man and will be remembered and celebrated as such. With heavy hearts we say Right-o, bye for now.

A funeral service will take place at Knox Presbyterian Church in Port Carling on Thursday April 9th at 1:00 with a reception to follow at the Port Carling Community Centre. A celebration of life will be held in Muskoka in early June as well, date and location to be determined. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Funeral Home in Bracebridge (705) 645-2257. Fond memories, photographs and online condolences may be shared at www.reynoldsfuneral.com

If you wish to make a donation in Paul’s memory, please consider the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.