Obituary: Anna Marie Bates

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Anna Marie Bates

(née DiMonte),

June 4, 1937 – October 13, 2026

Anna Marie "Ann" Bates, age 89, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at her home in Shorewood, Illinois, surrounded by her loving family.

Ann was born on June 4, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Ralph and Mary (Bucciarelli) DiMonte, both originally from Caramanico, Italy. Her Italian heritage and close relationships with her cousins remained an important part of her life. A lifelong resident of the Joliet area, Ann graduated from St. Francis Academy and the College of St. Francis, later earning a master's degree. She dedicated her career to education, serving as a mathematics teacher and administrator in the Troy Consolidated School District, as well as an adjunct professor at the College of St. Francis. She was also a pioneer in bringing technology into education, leading the development of the first computer lab at Troy's junior high school and helping integrate computers into the curriculum.

On February 7, 1959, Ann, affectionately known as "Annie" to Jack and her family, married the love of her life and soulmate, John "Jack" Bates of Coal City, Illinois. Their love story began at a Knights of Columbus dance sponsored by the Catholic Social Club and continued through 67 years of marriage. Ann and Jack were inseparable. Wherever one went, the other was never far behind — or, as Ann would often tell their grandchildren, "We go together."

Ann and Jack built a beautiful family that became their greatest joy and lasting legacy. A devoted and loving mother, Ann was immensely proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and nothing made her happier than spending time with them. Her face would light up whenever they called or came to visit. Her Catholic faith was an important part of her life, reflected in the kindness, generosity, and compassion she showed to others. She had the most loving and giving heart, and it is that unconditional love that her family will remember and cherish most.

Ann was a loyal and devoted friend, maintaining close friendships that spanned decades. She and Jack enjoyed spending time with family and friends in Florida over the years. In the 1980s, Ann and nine friends founded the Decamicus Investment Club, a name they chose to represent "ten friends." The club reflected her curiosity, intelligence, and willingness to embrace new ideas. She also enjoyed many years with her book club, bridge club, and the Women's Study Club of Joliet. Ann was a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Notre Dame football fan.

Ann is survived by her devoted husband, John "Jack" Bates; her children, Joseph (Leanne) Bates and Mariann (Steven) Wafer; and her daughter-in-law, Dr. Ann Bates, wife of her late son, Dr. John R. Bates. She was a cherished grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of six; and a beloved aunt to Tom, Michelle, and Nikki.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Mary DiMonte; her beloved son, Dr. John R. Bates; and her sisters, Vera Ciccotelli and Sylvia Bell.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Ann's loving caregivers from Gentle Touch, especially Anita, Veronica, Noreen, and Corra, who shared a special bond with her. Ann loved them dearly, and their kindness, compassion, and devoted care meant so much to her and her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Anna Marie Bates will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Shorewood, Illinois. Family and friends are asked to meet directly at the church. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet, Illinois.

For additional information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her memorial tribute at www.fredcdames.com.

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