James D. Bates, 76 of Belvidere, IL died Wednesday afternoon, July 26, 2006 in Maple Crest Nursing Home after a lingering illness. James was born November 1, 1929 in Chicago, Illinois. He married Angeline M. Crawford on June 2, 1956 in Belvidere. James retired from Advanced Transportation in Nov of 1991. James enjoyed spending time with people and socializing, his was affectionately known as "Smiley". He belonged to the Belvidere Moose Lodge #295, Teamsters Retiree's Club #325, and the American Legion at Avon Park, FL.Survivors include his wife, Angie of Belvidere; daughter, Barbara (Dennis) Taylor of Machesney Park, IL; son, James A. (Cheryl) Bates of Stillman Valley, IL; grandchildren, Brian (Shelley) Rohda, Staci Taylor, Miranda Bates, Rylee Bates and Spencer Bates; great-grandchildren, Zachary Rohda, Breana Taylor and Austin Taylor.James is predeceased by his mother, Jeannette C. Fiedler.

In lieu of flowers a memorial will be established in his name.