https://youtu.be/JiWoBK5UBv0
Ashland, Ore., — Hundreds of family, friends and community members mourned the life of Senator Alan Bates.
“She told me our friend and colleague Alan Bates had died, I yelled at her one word over and over again, no no no.” said Representative Peter Buckley.
But they also celebrated his life by sharing stories of love and laughter.
“We all looked up to him, admired him and always felt safe knowing he was there for us, he blessed us with countless memories and made sure we knew he how much he loved us.” said Samantha Bates, one of his daughters.
“Doctor Senator Alan Bates reached over and put his hand over my mouth too shut me up” said Buckley.
The Medford physician and state legislator suffered an unknown medical problem while out fly fishing with his son two weeks ago today.
“While he was a titan for others, to me and my siblings.. he was simply dad.” said Samantha Bates.
Representing District 3, the southern portion of Jackson County, Bates’ work in Salem left a lasting impression on many people.
“This is certainly a great loss, to the family, to the community, to the state, to humanity.” said former Oregon Governor, John Kitzhaber.
As his friends and family spoke, they all could agree on one thing.
Senator Alan Bates will never be forgotten.
“His absence will be felt forever, but our memories of him will live on.” said Samantha Bates.
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