Roger Neal Bates was born November 3, 1934 to Duane and Anna (Deepe) Bates in Davenport, Nebraska. He passed away on Friday, April 13, 2018 surrounded by family at his home in Syracuse, Nebraska having obtained the age of 83 years, 5 months, and 10 days.

Roger grew up and graduated from Edgar High School in 1952, attended college in Fairbury and then served in the US Army in 1955.  After returning home from the military, Roger married the love of his life Jenice Anderson on March 30, 1958 in Shickley, Nebraska.  Together they were blessed with three children, Rod, Jackie, and Bob.

Throughout his 36 year career at LT&T, he served in the following communities: Humboldt, Tecumseh, Auburn, Hebron, Geneva, and Syracuse. Roger always referred to his co-workers as his LT&T family. In each of these towns, Roger was active as a member of Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, Syracuse Rescue Squad, Luther Memorial Church Council, Massie Richards American Legion #100, Veteran's of Foreign Wars and LT&T Pioneer Association.

Roger and Jenice were "fishing buddies" and taught many life lessons to their children as they made a place of play and rest at Harlan County Reservoir. They enjoyed many wonderful family gatherings, playing cards and domino's. He and Jenice spent countless hours following activities of their children and grandchildren.

Roger is survived by his wife Jenice Bates of 60 years, children Rod (Gail) Bates of Omaha, NE, Jackie Bates of Bennet, NE, and Bob Bates of Wilmington, NC. Grandchildren Karla (Nathaniel) Matya, Becky (Brad) Hoff, Tyler, Austin, and Allison Bates; great grandchildren Noah, Grace, Milo Matya; Cameron, Caleb, Colin Hoff; Dick Anderson, Bob (Mariann) Anderson, along with nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at 10:30 A.M. at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church 1162 Mohawk, Syracuse, Nebraska with Rev. Sarah Cordray officiating

Visitation will be Tuesday, April 17, 2018 from 9:00 AM till 9:00 P.M. and the family will greet friends from 6:00 P.M. till 8:00 P.M. all at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent to fusselmanallenharvey.com

Memorials directed to Syracuse Senior Center or Food Pantry

Fusselman-Allen-Harvey Funeral Home, 644 Park Street Syracuse, NE 269-2441