Gerry Arden Bates

Gerry Bates died August 18, 2025 of complications from surgery. He was proceeded in death by his parents Gerry Arden Bates Sr. and Sharon Coyle. He is survived by his wife, Ann, of 49-years, son, Evan Bates (Nickoal), and granddaughters Kynlie, Abby and Charlotte Bates of Idaho Falls, his sisters, Marcella Getsinger (Kim), Kathy Reynolds Hall (Bruce), and brother Larry Coyle (Vanessa).

Gerry was a valuable and contributing member to the horticulture industry owning a garden and landscape business in Idaho Falls for 19 years. Afterwards, he represented the South Idaho Community Forestry Program Assisting with IDL for 25 years. Bates was known as the tree guy and also identifies with the nickname “The Lorax” from the Dr. Seuss book. The favorite part of his job was to join communities in celebrating Arbor Day and planting trees with the Lorax tagging along. The Lorax was often his wife, granddaughter, niece or sister. He also served as chairman of the Idaho Falls Shade Tree Committee. He was a man who spoke for the trees and often spoke of the need for people to be proud of the work done in communities to enhance them by planting trees. He was often quoted as saying “I don’t think we can ever have enough trees, we have a lot more available planting spaces…”

Gerry enjoyed many fall days with his dad hunting in Leadore, fishing with friends and family and golfing with anyone who was available. He loved to oar his raft with family and friends down the Hoback or on the South Fork which often including camping overnight (Craig drank all the beer!).

Gerry was the chef in the family and made many delicious meals that were a delight to all who shared them. Those gatherings were filled with Gerry’s humor and laughter, warmth and love by surrounding family and friends.