John W. "Jack" Bates, of Stoneham, died at the Massachusetts General Hospital on March 24, 2016 at the age of 84. Jack was born in Boston, raised in Arlington, a graduate of Arlington High School, Class of 1950 and went on to earn his Business & Accounting degree from Northeastern University. Jack served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. After returning from Korea, he resided in Stoneham for 42 years and was the Chief Financial Officer for Visidyne Inc. in Burlington for 29 years before his retirement. Jack enjoyed western movies, wrestling, woodworking, carpentry, building, reading and was an avid Patriots & Red Sox fan. He loved to travel with his wife all over Europe, Alaska, South America, Hawaii, Canada, and Vermont. Jack was the beloved husband of Jean M. (Wilson) Bates for 61 years. Loving father of John W. Bates III & his wife Sandra of Melrose, Jeffrey R. Bates of Boston, Joanne M. Bates of Stoneham and Jason W. Bates of Washington, DC. Cherished grandfather of Jack & Melissa, Joshua & Lili, Alexandra, Samuel and Gabriela. Devoted great grandfather of Octavio and Mariela. Caring brother of the late Lorraine Bilafer, Gordon Bates and Richard Bates. Brother in law of Clintelle Bates & Jacqueline Bates. Also survived by many nieces & nephews. Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Wednesday, March 30th from 4-8PM. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home on Thursday, March 31st at 8:45AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Patrick's Church, 71 Central St., Stoneham at 10AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Stroke Association, 7272 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75231.