Stephen Philip Bates

Stephen Philip Bates arrived two weeks late on January 14, 1969, in Sacramento, CA and departed way too soon on July 19, 2026, in Seattle, WA after a lengthy illness supported by his faithful and dedicated wife Harriett Bates.

Steve was born into the family of Barry, Esther and Tim Bates and later added stepmother Linda Krum and step siblings Dan Krum/Lanette, Alison Bixie/John and later stepfather Ben Loveridge and stepsiblings Jennifer Sturgis/Larry Cook and Melissa Berg/Ron into his blended family.

Steve grew up in Sacramento, California and attended local schools until he went away to college where he earned a double major within 5 years in Economics and Civil Engineering at U C Santa Cruz and the University of California at Berkeley.

Ultimately, his education and career in Civil Engineering took him to Southern California where he met Harriett Bishop who was stationed at Camp Pendleton as a registered nurse in the U. S. Navy. They were married in Sacramento, CA on May 6, 2000, but continued their careers in the United States and Japan until they both retired.

Steve will always be remembered for his bright mind, kindness to others, his love and devotion to Harriett, and his wonderful sense of humor. His character showed through everything he did.

Steve is survived by his wife Harriett, their puppy Ruby, his mother-in-law Carmen Bishop, his brother-in-law Jonathan Bishop, their goddaughter Kristina Wold, his parents, siblings, two nieces and a nephew and Uncle Leroy Lebeck.

Steve was preceded in death by his father-in-law Fred Bishop, grandparents Fred and Bea Bates, Albert and Mary Lebeck, Aunt Sue Emick, Uncle Robert Lebeck, Uncle Paul Lebeck and Cousin Christina Mapes.

Steve’s Celebration of Life service and reception will be held on September 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 3235 Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95825 (916) 482-9666. All are welcome to attend.

It has been requested that flowers be sent to the church.