BARKHAMSTED, Conn. David Bates, 62, passed away unexpectedly June 4, 2008, with his beloved son at his side. Born Aug. 20, 1945, in Brewer, he was the son of Hubert and Gertrude Bates. David was a graduate of Brewer High School and Husson College, followed by an accomplished career as an executive with Continental Insurance Co. His passions and interests were all things political, historical and treasuring and supporting our natural surroundings. His wife, Gail; children, Ali-son and Geoffrey; two grandchildren, Max and Nick; and his best pal, Lily, survive David. His brother, Roger, also survives him. David was predeceased by his beloved uncle, Anson Thom. A family memorial service was held June 10 in Peoples State Forest, Barkhamsted, Conn. Final resting-place will be in Orrington.