Lavona Bates

Age 64, of Tawas, formerly of Flint, Michigan, died on the evening of Friday, November 17, 2017. A memorial service will be held 2:00 pm, Friday, November 24, 2017, at Martin Funeral, Cremation, & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 12 noon until time of service. Those desiring may consider memorial contributions to the family. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. LaVona was born on April 30, 1953, in Ypsilanti, Michigan the daughter of LaRoy and Stella Lantzer. She and Michael Bates have been happily married for over 20 years. In her free time, she enjoyed spending time, with her family and fishing on the AuSable River. Left to cherish her memory are husband: Michael; six children: Mickey and husband, Scott Gale, Chrissy Watkins (Jim), April Shumaker, Mary and husband, Michael Flick, Mike Bates (Ashley), Stacy and husband, Michael Barnum; siblings: Julie Corbin, Duane Lantzer, and Gail Weber; 14 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren and her devoted companion and additional child, Hank the dog.