Paul Albert Bates

Paul Albert Bates, age 74, of Colchester, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, May 10, 2021. Born in Putnam, CT on October 12, 1946, he grew up in Thompson and was the son of the late George F. Bates, Jr. and Theresa (Bellavance) Bates. Paul was a proud veteran, having served active duty in the U.S. Army and then completing his 20 year enlistment as Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. He then went on to work for the Town of Glastonbury as an electrician in the maintenance department and most recently retired as an electrician with IBEW Local 42. He married his beloved wife, Maria Slusarczyk, in 1992 and they made their home in Colchester. Paul was a hard-working man whose labor of love was caring for the land and animals where he lived on Deer Creek Farm. Paul and Maria raised and rode horses for many years and his love of animals also included his pet dogs and cats. Paul will be remembered with love by his wife of 29 years, Maria; his son Jeremy Bates and his wife Beth of Vernon; his daughter Melissa Gilgun and her husband Daniel of Billerica, MA; his grandchildren; five brothers: George “Tom” F. Bates, III of Virginia Beach, VA, James A. Bates of Dayville, Timothy E. Bates of Putnam, Brian G. Bates of Waterford, and Kevin J. Bates of Putnam, along with numerous extended family members and friends. Funeral services will be held privately, according to his wishes. Donations in his memory may be made to the animal rescue of one’s choice. The Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home of Colchester has been entrusted with care of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com

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