Clifford L. Bates

Clifford L. Bates, of Ladysmith, Wisconsin, passed away on January 2, 2026, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, at the age of 80.

Clifford was born on October 22, 1945, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to Irvin and Ruth Bates. He spent much of his life in the Ladysmith area, which he proudly called home. His parents preceded him in death.

Clifford had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and four-wheeling, and he especially cherished the time he spent going to the gun range with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his sons, Daniel Bates of Cadott, Wisconsin, and his grandson Gavin; Mitchell Bates of Coolidge, Arizona, and his granddaughters April and Kristina; and Chad Bates and his wife Christine of Kaukauna, Wisconsin, along with grandchildren Brandi, Kathleen, Emily, Noah, Melissa, Nicholas, and Katie. He is also survived by 2 great-grandchildren.

Clifford was also preceded in death by his brothers, Donald Bates and Jim (Harold) Bates.

A celebration of life gathering will be held in Ladysmith in the spring.