We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Gilbert Arthur Bates, CD (Ret’d) on 13 April 2021, in his home in Middleton NS at age 92.

Born in Freeport NS, Gilbert joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1947 as a Firefighter. He served as Fire Chief at a number of air force stations throughout his military career.

After retiring from the Canadian Forces, Gilbert returned to Freeport where he worked in the fishing industry and also operated a small grocery store. He served several terms as village commissioner and was instrumental in having the first fire hall built. Gilbert later worked at Michelin Tire in Bridgewater in security and teaching firefighting and first aid. After his work at Michelin, he bought the Long and Brier Islands Ambulance Service and operated it until late 1989. At that time, he purchased a motor home and he and his wife Joan spent some 16 winters in the southern U.S.A. and Mexico.

There will be no funeral service at Gilbert’s request. After cremation, interment will be at Brookside Cemetery in Freeport. Donations in Gilbert's memory can be made to the Freeport Baptist Church or Brookside Cemetery Maintenance Fund. Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home.