Log in

Submit a memorial

Celebrate your loved one’s life in a way that’s as independent as they were – in the Daily Independent and on YourValley.net. Share fond memories, photos and information on celebrations of life using our easy, step-by-step process.


Caryl I. Bates

Posted

Caryl I. Bates passed away in Fountain Hills on Sunday, March 17, 2019 at her home at the age of 80. She was born in Minneapolis, Minn. on July 4, 1938 to David and Doris (Clark) Owen.

She attended high school in Dawson, Minn. and completed the dental assistant program at the University of Minnesota. She worked for Dr. Borgendale in Dawson until she was united in marriage with Jim Bates on March 19, 1960. They lived in various states while Jim served in the Marine Corp settling in Waseca, Minn. where they raised their daughters. They retired to Fountain Hills for the past 34 years where she was the church organist at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church.

Caryl is survived by daughters, Jeanne (Michael) Gronholm of Neenah, Wis. and Caren (Todd) Wilkinson of Knoxville, Tenn.; four grandchildren; Brian Gronholm of Wichita, Kan., Heather (Sam) Alexander and Amelia of Knoxville, Tenn., Megan (Derek) Thorsenston of Minneapolis, Minn. one great granddaughter, Shelby Wilkinson of Knoxville, Tenn.; one sister, Nancy (Elton) Falness of Dawson, Minn. and many other loving relatives and friends.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Jim, on July 5, 2018; her granddaughter, Jamie Wilkinson, and her nephew, Jedd Bates.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to be given to Fountain Hills Presbyterian Church, 13001 N. Fountain Hills Blvd, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268.