Melrose, NY George William Bates II, of Melrose, passed away on May 25, 2022. He was 77. Born in Albany, NY on July 3, 1944 to the late George W. and Mabel (Cook) Bates. In 1971, he married his wife, Barbara Jean (Baickle) Bates. In June this year, they would have celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary. George is a graduate of the Hoosic Valley Central School District, class of 1962. He attended Hudson Valley Community College, where he earned his associates degree in Automotives. George soon after entered the military in 1966 as a United States Navy SeaBee and was initially stationed in Adak, Alaska. He was deployed to Vietnam during the war where he continued his service until his honorable discharge in 1968. George was owner operator of Shortys Autobody in Schaghticoke, and was a pillar of the community. He was a life member of the Melrose Fire Department, acting in various roles, including Company President and Chairman of the Fire Commissioners, during his 60 years of service. His presence in the community also included working as a rural postal carrier, past school board member and Director of the HVAA Junior Bowling League, among other various community organizations and events. George enjoyed bowling and did so with the Firemans League at Hilltop Bowl Sunday nights. There was nowhere George loved to be more than in North Wildwood, NJ. Travelling there was an annual trip since he was a child, in order to spend time with extended family. Many memories have been made at the beach. Survivors along with his wife, Barbara, include his two children Jacqueline (Mark) Meeks of Melrose, and Michael Bates of Melrose. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Ethan Meeks, Katelyn Bates, Kacie Bates, and Matthew Dickson. Relatives and friends may call from 5:00 pm 8:00 pm on Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, 173 Main Street Schaghticoke, NY 12154. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 starting at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Johns Cemetery in Schaghticoke. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Melrose Fire Department. Online remembrances may be made at www.chasesmithfamily.com To plant Memorial Trees in memory of George William Bates, II, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store. Visitation Tuesday, May 31, 2022 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Chase-Smith Family Funeral Homes, Schaghticoke 173 Main Street Schaghticoke, New York 12154 Funeral Service Wednesday, June 01, 2022 10:00 AM Graveside Service Wednesday, June 01, 2022 11:00 AM