Our precious love Samuel LaMar Bates Jr. born on November 20, 1980 took his last breath here on earth and made his transition to be with the Lord Sunday, June 11, 2017 of the age of 36.
The exceptional LaMar attended both Portage North and South, Michigan schools, fiercely contributing his athletic abilities through basketball and baseball with awards. LaMar’s talents didn’t cease there, with lyrical abilities allowing him to write raps, poems and lyric’s to a song in the drop of a dime, a breakfast connoisseur, chess advocate, monopoly champion who live to debate in any subject possible, his interest and wisdom in history, conspiracy theories, advertisement and entrepreneurial skills only touch the base of our dear love one level of intelligence. He could flip an idea into a business in no time. Wise beyond his years and loved to spread his wisdom onto those willing to listen. His charismatic-continuously adapting mind granted him abilities to converse and build genuine relationships with almost anyone. Samuel LaMar, or lucky, a friend to all lived life spreading confidence, sense of humor, generous personality, and protective nature to whomever he’d come into contact with. Achieving an outstanding citizen award for literally saving a life in Battle Creek with his bare hands, a little boy no older than eight on a summer vacation at the local pool with his mother, face down in the water floating with no movement, our loved one who gathered us here today jumps into the pool with no hesitation, successfully saving his life. Once again leaving his life imprint on another family, allowing him to be tucked into bed by his mother another night. The stories could go on and on with incidents and situations where he stepped in to help, protect and conquer the situation at hand. He cared and loved mankind. His heart was just that huge.
He is a legend with a heart of gold, that memorable smile that enlightens any atmosphere, his suave communication skills, his knowledge, wisdom and love for the bible and God. LaMar unarguably & indefinitely left us all with memories to last a lifetime.
He is survived by his parents Denise-Bernard Smith and Samuel-Maxine Bates. Son Jaden LaMar Bates (mother Angela) of whom he loved more than his expansive vocabulary could describe in words. Sisters: Anic’tra LaCal, Monique Bates Sims, Tasha Whitehead and Patrice Smart. Brothers: DeNard LaRon, Vernard Whitehead, and Christopher Bates. Niece Calyn A’Vani; Nephews: Calemore and Cariahn, extended nephews, niece, as well as a host of loving family and friends.
FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS!

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