Paul Stephen Bates

Nov 23, 1946 -

Mar 7, 2026

Paul Bates, 79, passed away on March 7, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was born to Anna and Glenn Bates on Nov. 23, 1946, in Spokane, Wash.

He married Leigh Bates in 1975 in Colorado Springs, Colo. He served in the Army and Army National Guard 1968-1994, and was a program manager for the Department of Defense 1994-2012. Paul was a decorated Vietnam veteran, he received a Bronze Star award, Vietnam service medal and Army commendation medal.

He was one of the founders of Mustang Hockey, State Hockey past president, Fur Rondy past president, board member of the 5th Line, Seawolf Hockey Blue Liners and Engine 557. He enjoyed working on model railroads and watching hockey.

He is survived by his wife, Leigh Bates; sons, Thomas Bates and Doug Bates; daughter-in-law, Dawn Bates; and grandsons, Keagan Bates and Alex Quick. Paul will be buried at Fort Richardson National Cemetery.

A service will be held for Paul on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 12 p.m., at Janssen's Eagle River Funeral Home, 16421 Brooks Loop in Eagle River, Alaska.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to UAA Hockey Legacy, Seawolf Hockey Blue Liners, 5th line or Engine 557.