HARMONY — Herbert Dutton Bates Jr., 52, died Feb. 8, 2010 at his home in Harmony with his family by his side.

He was born in Concord, Mass. July 9, 1957 the son of Herbert D. Sr. and Jean (Qua) Bates. As a young man Herbert graduated from Carrabec High School in North Anson and married Holly Ann Preble July 31 in 1983. Herb was employed by Linkletter and Sons Inc. located in Athens where he worked as a skidder driver for many years. Herb retired in 2009 due to ill health. He was an active member of the Church of the Open Bible in Athens, Maine.

Herb enjoyed gardening, camping, mountain climbing and spending time surrounded by his family. He was a wonderful, caring person. He had a lot of patience and the best sense of humor, always being able to crack a joke anytime. He had a lot of faith so we know he will be in a better place. He will always be loved and remembered.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Holly Ann Bates of Harmony; his mother, Jean Qua Bates of Carlisle, Mass.; six daughters, Nichole Marie Edes, Sierra Bates, Kendra Bates, Callie Jean Bates, Shania Lorraine Bates and Leah Faith Bates; four sons, Rory Edwin Bates and wife, LeAnna Marie, Arian Preble Bates and fiancée, Mallory Hazen, Tristan Baxter Bates and Forrest Qua Bates; two sisters, Connie Metivier and Martha Byron; a brother, Dana Bates; one granddaughter with another on the way and; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends wishing may make donations in his memory to The One Wheel One Cure Foundation, c/o Tristan Bates, PO Box 267, Harmony, Maine 04942. Make checks payable to Tristan Bates.

A memorial service was held Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010 at the Athens Elementary School with Pastor Haynie officiating the ceremony.

Interment to be held in the spring. Arrangements under the care and direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service in Skowhegan.