Donald W. Bates, age 91, of Mitchell, SD died Thursday November 15, 2007 at Firesteel Healthcare Center. Funeral services will be 3:00 PM Saturday at Will Funeral Chapel with burial at Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 3 PM Saturday at the Will Funeral Chapel. Don Bates, son of Oliver and Caroline (Stowell) Bates was born March 19, 1916 on the family farm in Sanborn County, SD. He grew up and received his schooling in the Sanborn County area. Don and Esther haveDon was united in marriage with Esther Bergquist on September 8, 1938 in Huron, SD. During the first 22 years of their marriage, they cared for Esthers mother in their home. Don and Esther lived and worked together on the vamily farm for over 20 years, milking cows, raising and butchering chickens, etc Selling cream and eggs was their livelihood during the dirty 30s. In 1964, Don was employed by the South Dakota State Highway Department. He retired in 1981 from the State Highway Department. Don and Esther spent the last few years living in several healthcare homes in Mitchell. The kindness and compassion shown by caretakers at Seasons of Life, Prairie Crossings and Firesteel Heathcare Center, helped so much to ease their transition from independence, to assisted living. They truly felt a valued part of your families. Don was a member of First Lutheran Church. He is survived by his nieces, nephews and his many friends. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Esther on October 11, 2006, his parents, one sister and four brothers.