Millerton- Dorothy (Dot) Bates, 92, a long-time area resident died peacefully in the comfort of her home on Friday, February 5, 2021.
Born in New Milford, CT in 1928, she was the daughter of the late Wesley and Sophie (Wegloski) 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 was remarried to Wheaton Joseph Bates who died in 1996.
She is survived by her sister Elaine Zeitler of Pompano Beach, FL, a nephew and a niece. Her two sons, Lynn David Breen of Port St. Lucie, FL and Ralph Charles Breen and his wife Laurie of Glen Rose, TX, her daughter-in-law, Marilyn Bouck of Metairie, LA and her daughter, Karen Bates Dubray and her husband Rick of Ancramdale, NY, as well as 15 grandchildren and 9 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 being a plane spotter during WWII to truck driving to bookkeeping. She was an avid reader who enjoyed studying, local history, genealogy 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.
Her family wishes to thank all those who helped with her care which allowed her to remain home and with family during her final days.
There are no calling hours. A memorial service will be held virtually at a later date. In lieu of flowers, 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, 37 Park Ave., Millerton, NY. To send online condolences please visit: www.conklinfuneralhome.com.