Former Livingston resident Thomas H. Bates, 83, of Caldwell, died March 23. Arrangements were by the Galante Funeral Home of Caldwell. Born in Montclair, Mr. Bates lived in Livingston before becoming a long-time Caldwell resident. After graduating from Caldwell High School in 1951, he served in the Army as a military policeman in Germany and was later honorably discharged as a disabled veteran. He then worked as a real estate agent and home inspector in the West Essex area before becoming a municipal employee for the Borough of Caldwell. He retired 18 years ago, after 15 years of service. Mr. Bates was also a volunteer fireman. He joined the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department in 1960, and was the eldest active member. He served as chaplain, honorary fire chief and past-president of the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department Relief Association. He was a life member of the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association and was honored in 2001 as the grand marshal in the 100th anniversary celebration of the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department. Mr. Bates is survived by his wife, Claire (née Schilling); his daughters, Beth Ann Bates, Rosemary Bates- Pierone and her husband, Matthew, and Jennifer Bates; and three grandchildren. He was also the brother of the late John, George and Edward Bates. The family has suggested that, in lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Bates’ memory be made to the West Essex First Aid Squad or to the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department.
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