Lyle E. Bates

“Living the Dream”

This was Lyle’s motto and he lived life to the fullest. Anyone who asked Lyle how he was doing, this was his answer.

Lyle Edward Bates, 72, left his earthly life on January 18, 2024 due to Alzheimer’s disease.

Lyle will be missed by his loving wife, Kathy, and daughters Rebecca and Krista and his sister Lynda, who was instrumental in their move back to Wisconsin.

Lyle was born February 15, 1951 to Arthur and Lorraine Bates in Wausau WI. He graduated from Wausau High School in 1969 and later graduated from UW Eau Claire, Wisconsin with a fine arts degree. Before moving to Houston, he was very involved in his church and Boy Scouts and became a Scoutmaster in his later years. He worked with his father at Bates Truck Bodies and then moved to Houston where he started his own successful business in the oil industry selling all over the world for more than 35 years. Lyle was recognized by a company in Denmark, as “The Million Dollar Man” selling over a million dollars of product in one year. During that time, he also proudly displayed his artwork in a gallery in downtown Houston for many years.  His artistic talents included painting, sculpting and photography, which he continued until his diagnosis prevented him from going on. Lyle was a mentor at his church, to confirmation candidates as well as his friends and family. Many knew to seek Lyle’s expertise with advice from the heart, especially troubled youth. Knowing of his progression of Alzheimer’s, he wanted to be closer to his family and loved ones in which he grew up with, leading them back to Wausau two years ago. Lyle had a big personality and was loved by many for his witty sense of humor, kind heart, and welcoming smile.

Lyle is survived by his wife, Kathy, his daughters, Rebecca White and Grandson Ryan, Krista and Mike Shamburger and stepdaughters, Brandi Bryan and Cristi Barahona.  He is also survived by his brother Larry Bates (Lorie) Sister Lynda Hollis (Timm) and close cousins Sallie (Terry) Marquardt, Burt (Kim) Harding and Tim (Donna) Harding and many nieces and nephews.

Many thanks to Interim Hospice for their compassionate care during Lyle’s final days. If desired, any donations may be directed to Interim Hospice group who truly went above and beyond with their loving care.

“To be absent in body is to be present with Christ”

Until we meet again.

A private family Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com