Obituary of Laura Bates

Laura Lee Bates March 16, 1963 – October 30, 2019 Laura Lee was born on March 16, 1963 to Pierre W. & Kathryn L. Sand in Renton, Washington. The youngest of five children Laura was cherished by her three older sisters and brother. Laura is survived by her beloved husband Kenneth Bates, daughter Jordan Bates, son Joseph Bates, mother Kathryn Sand, sister Alison Wonderland, brother Peter Sand, sister Mary Brock and granddaughter Bridgette. She was preceded in death by her father Pierre Sand and sister Colleen Maruska.

Laura grew up in Auburn, Washington in a neighborhood crowded with other children and friendships. She attended Holy Family School, Olympic Jr. High School, and Auburn High School. After high school she worked at a thrift store, where her lifetime love of a great bargain took hold. She loved garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment stores and knew instinctively how to find designer clothing and other quality merchandise at a cut rate price.

While working at the thrift store Laura felt compelled to enroll in Medical Assistant classes at Renton Technical College. She saved her money and applied for student loans that would cover the cost of tuition. She continued working at the thrift shop and after two years completed her degree. She was quickly hired by Group Health Co-Operative where she worked for nineteen years. Later she worked for fourteen year with CHI Fransican. She felt honored to care for those who suffered from illnesses. It was not surprising that she was loved by her co-workers and patients who became like family to her. It was during her time at Group Health she met Kenneth, she felt so comfortable with him and knew right away he was the man with whom she would spend her life.

They were married August 19, 1995 in Tacoma, Washington. On October 19 ,1996 they gave birth to their daughter Jordan and seven years, while Ken was away serving our country, Laura gave birth to their son Joseph on May 9, 2004. In 2014 the family would grow by one more when Mama came to live with Laura and her family. Laura had a wonderful sense of humor, words that describe her would be sassy, feisty, and smart aleck! She was best known as a Mama Bear, her commitment and loyalty to her husband and children was beyond compare. She loved camping and her favorite spot was Lake Sylvia.

Laura also enjoyed a good party, especially costume parties! Gardening brought great peace and happiness to her; her favorite flower was the President Lincoln rose in her front yard. Most importantly of all was her absolute commitment to her relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ. The Lord was her firm foundation in which she navigated her life, for she knew no matter what He would never ever leave her nor forsake her. Lastly, Laura would want that we give grace and acceptance to each other, always seeking to build each other up in love.

In memory of Laura the family would like attendees of her Life Celebration to wear blue or a ‘touch of blue’, her favorite color. Laura’s Life Celebration will take place on November 16, 2019 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at New Community Church, 3102 S 23rd St. Tacoma, Washington 98405.