Marion Edward 'Ed' Bates, 56, was taken from us August 27, 2021. He was born August 5, 1965, in Fort Jackson, SC, to Emmett L. and Betty L. (Wilson) Bates.

Ed graduated from Hutchinson High School and spent two years studying photography and drama at Hutchinson Community College. He worked as a collections agent for NCA for many years, and most recently at Harris & Harris. Ed was an outdoors and survival enthusiast, and the biggest Cheese Head Green Bay Packers fan in town. He loved live music, especially Blues and Rock. Ed had a nickname for everyone and a quick wit. You never knew what he was going to say or write, but he was sure to get a laugh out of you, even if he was the butt of the joke. Ed had a great heart and would do anything to help others, even if they didn't ask for help.

He was married to Lori Hess before they divorced.

Ed is survived by: his mother, Betty of Buhler; brothers, Ken Bates (Karen) of Beaverton, OR, Ron Bates (Sarah), nephew Ross Wilson Bates, and great-nephew, Beau, all of Haslet, TX; stepson, Damond Flowers of Wichita; stepdaughter, Hailey Ummel of Seattle, WA; and numerous extended family members, including some favorite cousins.

Cremation has taken place at his wish, and a remembrance of Ed's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, September 27, 2021, at Elliott Chapel. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Saturday at Elliott Mortuary. The family will be present to receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, September 26, 2021, at Elliott Mortuary.

The service will be livestreamed and the link below will be available beginning at 1:30 p.m. on the day of the service.

Click here to view the service

Ed was with a dear friend Phil Anstine, who was taken from this world at the same time. A Celebration of Life party will be held for both at Richman Arboretum, 2801 Dillon Ave., from 6-9 p.m. Monday.

Memorials are suggested to Reno County Veterans' Memorial, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.