Eugene Ciriaco " Gene" Bates

Gene Bates was born on December 30, 1937, in Emmett, Idaho, to his loving parents, Lansing and Pilar Bates. He grew up in Emmett and Homedale before moving to Vale in the third grade, where he would spend the rest of his youth surrounded by his brothers, Robert and Steven, and his sister, Consuelo.

During his years in Vale, Gene developed a lifelong love for hunting, fishing, and sports—passions that would shape much of his life. His athletic talent was soon evident; at Vale High School, he became an outstanding athlete, helping lead his teams to three state championships—two in football and one in baseball. He was honored to be selected to play on the only Oregon Shrine Team in Portland and went on to accept both a football and baseball scholarship to Oregon State University, where he continued to excel in athletics.

After an exceptional season playing baseball for OSU and leading his team to the playoffs, Gene signed a professional baseball contract with the Cleveland Indians. From 1958 to 1961, he played within the organization, fulfilling a lifelong dream. While still in high school, Gene met the love of his life, Irene Ybarzabal. The two were married in December of 1960, beginning a loving marriage that would span 65 wonderful years. They were able to celebrate their milestone anniversary on December 31, 2025—Gene’s final day with us.

Gene’s greatest source of pride and joy was his family. He and Irene raised four children—Elena, Geno, Michael, and Angela—instilling in them the same values of hard work, kindness, and faith that guided his own life. He was immensely proud that all four became college graduates, successful in their careers, and devoted parents themselves. Gene’s love extended deeply to his ten grandchildren—Maegan, Michaela, and Tyler Pickett; Jessica Tettelbach; Andrew and John Bates; Gabriella and Miya Bates; and Michael and Luke McGrath—and his eight great-grandchildren: Walker and James Pickett; Jack and Henry Bates; Georgia and Bowen Bates; and Brooks and Quinn Tettelbach. The love and admiration they all shared for their “Grandpa Gene” was boundless.

Following his baseball career, Gene dedicated his life to education. He began teaching sixth grade in Ontario, later serving as both vice principal and principal over a 30-year career. His influence on countless students and colleagues left a lasting impact on the community. In recognition of his commitment and service, the sporting field at the middle school was named in his honor—an enduring tribute to a man who always sought to bring out the best in others.

After retirement, Gene continued his service to education as a member of the Malheur Educational Service District. His faith was central to his life, and he was an active member of Blessed Sacrament Church. He also served with the Knights of Columbus and participated in the Basque Club, maintaining strong ties to his heritage and community.

In his later years, Gene found joy in simple pleasures—fishing, hunting, and golfing with lifelong friends; tending to his immaculate yard; and nurturing his beloved garden of peppers. Sharing his harvest with family and friends brought him endless happiness, as did the gatherings that surrounded those moments.

He is survived by his wife Irene Bates, his children Elena (Bates) Pickett, Geno Bates (Laura), Mike Bates (Tammy), and Angela (Bates) McGrath (Josh). He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, his two brothers Robert Bates (Carolyn), and Steve Bates (Sandy) as well as sisters-in-law Juanita Eaton and Kitsie Joyce, brother-in law Bill DeLong, and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lansing and Pilar Bates, In-laws John Ybarzabal and Juanita Hoff, sister Consuelo (Bates) DeLong, brothers and sister-in-law John and Loretta Grove, Robert Eaton and Peter Joyce, son-in-law Jay Pickett, as well as nephews Robert DeLong and David Bates.

Gene Bates will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, respected educator, and cherished friend. His humor, generosity, and quiet strength touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was one of faith, service, and love—a life well lived and deeply missed.

Special thanks to Horizon Hospice. Dr Brett Johnson and Gene’s favorite nurse Shawna Pitman who gave him the most special care.

Donations may be made to the Ontario Basque Club or Blessed Sacrament food bank.

A Rosary will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 10:00am followed by Mass at 11:00am at Blessed Sacrament Church, 829 SW 2nd Ave, Ontario, OR. Arrangements are under the direction of Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Chapel. Online guest book can be signed at www.nampafuneralhome.com