Joan Marie Bates

Joan Marie (Fagan) Bates, 83, the "gold standard" of a sister, mother and grandmother, passed away on May 9, 2024. Preceding her death, a multitude of medical caregivers from all over Denver, Colorado visited her in-person to give final hugs and kisses and tell her how much they loved her. Joan dedicated her entire life to caring for others in many forms. She was especially passionate about the work of organ and tissue donation and its importance of continuing life for others. She had an electric smile and personality; she made an impact everywhere she traveled and lived. A loving mother of George (Michelle) Bates of Denver, CO and Keith (Lauren) Bates of Seattle, WA.; she was the cherished grandmother of Keith and Georgia Bates of Bainbridge Island, WA and Denver, CO and Greyson and Elliot Bates of Seattle, WA. Joan is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Koerber of Leland; NC; her brother, Robert (Janet) Carmichael of Scottsdale, AZ. and many treasured nieces and nephews throughout the United States. Joan joined the religious order of Sisters of Charity at 19 years of age and spent seven years studying and nursing in Catholic hospitals throughout the Western United States. Fortunately for her sons, she left the order and upon returning home to Michigan, she married Robert Bates (deceased) and continued her medical career until retiring. Joan was devoted to her family and was passionate about her profession. Joan was known for her vivacious personality, her beautiful smile and loving heart. She was treasured by her family and many friends. May she be somewhere right now looking at beautiful elephants while enjoying a tall skinny latte with sugar-free vanilla and any kind of ice cream while playing euchre (with both bowers in her hand), laughing and smiling for eternity. Funeral Mass with visitation preceding and celebration following will be updated when confirmed. You may honor her by donating to any organ/tissue organization or by deliberately doing something wonderful for yourself and someone you love. If you would like to mail a card then you may to Bates family 7271 S Chapparal Cir W, Centennial, CO 80016

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Joan Marie Bates

September 6, 1940 - May 9, 2024