Lawrence A. Bates

REV. LAWRENCE A. BATES

Rev. Lawrence (Larry) Bates, 81, Grove City, Ohio went to his heavenly home on Saturday, September 16th, 2023, surrounded by loved ones.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, September 24th, 2023.
2-3:00 p.m. Visitation
3:00 p.m. Service
The Grove Church, 4371 Grove City Road, Grove City, Ohio, 43123

Born June 18, 1942, in Salina, Kansas, he was the youngest child of Lawrence and Frances (Allen) Bates. Larry married the love of his life in 1960, Anita Lee Bates, and they celebrated 63 wonderful years together. Larry attended the University of Kansas and Fort Hayes State College, graduating with a Bachelors and Masters Degrees of Science in Education and Administration. Faith was the foundation in all areas of his life. He understood the importance of spiritual leadership, mentorship, and coaching. Larry's career began as a teacher, football coach, and Principal. He answered God's call to join the ministry and was ordained in April, 1976 and his mission's ministry, faithfulness and servitude will be his legacy. His commitment to impacting lives continued as he served as Superintendent / Principal of Gahanna Christian Academy while on staff at the church. As coaching was a passion, he was able to coach the Varsity Girls Basketball Team through his tenure at the school.

Larry partnered with Builders International and led construction teams on 12 trips to 7 countries because "Every person deserves a place to find hope". The things that mattered most in his life, his favorite Bible verse John 3:16; his wife for her faithfulness in all things; and his fierce love for his family. He loved and supported each of his grandchildren and great grandchildren in all their endeavors, rarely missing a sporting event, concert, musical or an opportunity just to spend time with them. He cherished his dear friends and was loyal through his last days. He loved playing golf, watching college football, studying the word and building community through missions and Bible Study groups.

Survivors include his wife Anita, daughters Debbie (Tim), Shari (Marlin); grandchildren Jennafer, Tim, Jr. (Kara), Madison (Travis), Mackenzie (Emily), Morgon (Kaylee), Maguire; great-grandchildren Chloe, Payton, Nash, Liam, Brynn and Lucas; sister Laree Morgenstern (Larry) and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial Gifts to Honor Larry's life work in Ministry and Missions can be sent to:
The Grove Church, 4371 Grove City Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123 (https://grovecitychurch.org/giving) Please note: Larry Bates Memorial
Builders International at AGWM Builders International Foundation, 1445 N. Booneville Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802 Account #796488 Please note: Larry Bates Memorial (https://giving.ag.org/donate/600001-796488 Note Larry Bates Memorial in Comments)