Dorothy ‘Dot’ Bates

MILLERTON — Dorothy “Dot” Bates, 92, a long-time area resident, died peacefully in the comfort of her home on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021.  

Born in New Milford, Conn., in 1928, she was the daughter of the late Sophie (Wegloski) and Wesley Traver. Her father referred to her as his “favorite son” as they enjoyed many adventures together. 

She was married to Ralph Edwin Breen, who passed away in 1955. She remarried to Wheaton Joseph Bates, who died in 1996.  

She is survived by her sister, Elaine Zeitler of Pompano Beach, Fla.; two sons, Lynn David Breen of Port St. Lucie, Fla., and Ralph Charles Breen of Glen Rose, Texas; her daughter-in-law, Marilyn Bouck of Metairie, La.; and her daughter, Karen Bates Dubray of Ancramdale; as well as 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and another great-grandson due in July. Her eldest son, John Robert Breen, died in 2009. 

Mrs. Bates held many unique jobs throughout her life ranging from driving a horse team, being a plane spotter during World War II, driving a delivery truck to bookkeeping. She designed and helped fell the trees to build the family’s homes in the woods. 

She was an avid reader who enjoyed studying and researching many topics, including local history and genealogy. She loved gardening and being outdoors to observe nature but she is best known for her faith as a Jehovah’s Witness. She was baptized in 1958 and for over 60 years she could be found regularly at the Kingdom Hall or preaching in the door-to-door ministry. She loved sharing the Bible’s message of the Kingdom of God and hope for the future.  

She always said she met a lot of good people in her time, and a lot of people were good to her. Thank you.

Her family wishes to thank all those who helped in her care, which allowed her to remain home with family during her final days. 

Due to COVID restrictions, a memorial service will be held virtually at a later date. In lieu of flowers she suggested memorial contributions may be made to the Millerton Fire Company, P.O. Box 733, Millerton, NY 12546. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Scott D. Conklin Funeral Home in Millerton. 

To send online condolences, go to www.conklinfuneralhome.com.