Obituary: Harry “Sheldon” Bates

Harry “Sheldon” Bates, 71, a resident of Prescott Valley, Arizona, formerly of the Valley of the Sun and Escondido, California, got his Angel’s wings on Friday, July 27, 2018.

He graduated from Tempe High School and attended ASU. He was an avid car guy. First, a charter member of the Arizona Alfa Romeo Owners Club; then a member and multiple officer holder in the North San Diego County Over the Hill Gang Club; and most recently a two-term President of the Prescott Antique Auto Club. He loved buying and selling cars and was a frequent Craig’s list and E-Bay shopper. His last auto purchase being a 1929 DeSoto which generated his comic persona “Harry the Hammer.” He was also a great sailor and owned four sailboats during his time in SoCal.

He was in the forklift business for over 40 years and for the last 30 of those years as the consummate salesman, getting his clients the best bang for their buck. He was well known all over the USA, Canada and Mexico. He discovered a new career after retirement in theatrics. He was a frequent emcee and standup comedian on stage. He could not pass up the opportunity to tell a joke or story to make you laugh.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Kitty Bates; his in-laws, Ralph and Mildred Busch; his brothers-in-law, Ralph Busch; Jr., and Leighton Lee; and son-in-law, Chris Martinez. Sheldon is leaving behind his loving wife of almost 50 years, Jacque; daughter, Cindy Martinez and grandsons, Nick and Cody; son, Fred and wife, Alissa, grandson, Christian and granddaughter, Abigail; brothers, Tony (Maria) and Ken; sister, Kathy Lee; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and other family members and many friends whom he loved and cherished. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

If anyone wishes to honor his memory, the family suggests contribution to any of the VA groups in Prescott, Arizona, that the PAAC supports.

The family will hold a celebration of his life on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, from noon-6 p.m., at the Club House at the Villages at Lynx Creek. All friends are welcome to come and say a few words in his honor.

Information provided by survivors.