Thomas Larry Bates

Thomas Larry Bates

1940 ~ 2026

Thomas Larry Bates passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026 in Lehi, Utah.

Tom was born November 29, 1940, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to William M. Bates and Addie Jean VanZandt. He was the 2nd of 4 children and spent his childhood in Cheyenne and Rawlins, Wyoming, graduating from Cheyenne High School in 1958.

Following high school, Tom was awarded a scholarship to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Although circumstances prevented him from attending, his passion for learning never waivered. He completed a four-year electrical apprenticeship becoming a licensed electrician at 22 years old. Tom enrolled at the University of Wyoming, where he earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 1966. He later obtained a Master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Utah in 1971.

On August 7, 1965 he married Jo Ann Durrant in Cheyenne, Wyoming. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Together they built a loving home and family with their four children.

Tom enjoyed a distinguished 34 year career as a software engineer with Sperry Rand, UNIVAC, and L-3 Harris.

Outside of work, Tom embraced life with enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure. He loved geocaching, mountain biking, wood carving, camping, fishing, riding 4 wheelers, gardening, and woodworking. He also had a love for the scouting program and spent many years as a boy scout leader. Music was another life- long passion. He played guitar with a group of friends and was an accomplished clarinet player with the Wasatch Winds Orchestra. Tom loved sharing his hobbies and talents with family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

More than any accomplishment, Tom’s greatest joy was his family. He especially cherished being a grandpa. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, and he created lasting memories that they will all cherish forever.

Tom was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he served in many callings throughout his life. His quiet faith, willingness to serve and Christlike example blessed the lives of many. He believed in lifelong learning, hard work, and serving others with humility and kindness. He approached life with intelligence and a quiet confidence that inspired those around him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his infant brother, William; his sister, Mary Ellen Leonard; and his brother, John Carlton Bates.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jo Ann Bates; His children, Dan Bates, Kerry (Jason) Coe, Chris (Kemy) Bates, Mary Ann (Sam) Butikofer, and his 7 beloved grandchildren: Britton (Trudy) Coe, Gavin (Madison) Coe, Addisyn Coe (currently serving a mission in Barcelona Spain), Mia Butikofer, Trevon Butkofer, Daxton Butikofer, and Coen Bates. He was also joyfully anticipating the arrival of his 1st great grandchild due in September. He is also survived by sister in laws, Earlene Durrant, Guyna Ogata and Sheila Iversen, a brother in law, Scott Durrant, a niece and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers and staff who lovingly cared for Tom during the final months of his life. Their compassion and kindness brought comfort to both Tom and his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints missionary fund.

A viewing will be held Saturday, August 8 from 9:30 - 10:30 am - Funeral services to follow at 11:00 am at the Highland Utah Stake Center located at 5335 W. 11200 N., Highland Utah, 84003.

Funeral will also be streamed via Zoom:

https://zoom.us/j/92187546664?pwd=N7v9XIMUST3pLj3B40qgSHe13XfQHA.1

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Larry Bates, please visit our floral store.