Ronald Willis "Ron" Bates, 76, of Richmond, died Monday, January 2, 2023, at North Kansas City Hospital.

Ron was born on November 10, 1946, in Ray County, the son of Jewel Creason and Mary Lynn (Wiggins) Bates.  He was united in marriage to Mary L. Acree of Henrietta; she survives of the home.

Additional survivors include: son, Todd (Jill) Bates of Richmond; daughter, Kelly Lee of Richmond; nine grandchildren: Brooke (Michael) Gard, Kristen Bates (Alex Luman), Tyler Bates, Logan Oldham, Corben Oldham, Gaven Oldham, Abrey Oldham, Evan Bates, and Leyton lee; seven great-grandchildren: Lilly Ahart, Rylee Claire, Kloyee Claire, Jaxon Ahart, Brayleigh Bates, Amilia Ahart, and Kazlee Luman; and brother, Jim Veach of Carrollton.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Veach.

Ron was reared and educated in the area of his birth.  He worked for the railroad for 27 years as a conductor; first for the Milwaukee Railroad, then the Canadian Pacific Railroad, until his accident forced him to retire.  Ron enjoyed music and was a drummer in a local band, The Rhythm Riders.  He enjoyed stockcar racing for many years, with his son, at I-70 Raceway, and all over the Midwest.  He liked mowing his grass and loved his grandchildren.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor's choice.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, January 6, 2023, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 5, 2023, at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.  Please remember to share your memories of Ron with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com .