BATES, Jeffrey C. Of Cambridge, passed away on May 7, 2020 after contracting the Covid-19 virus. Mr. Bates, age 70, was admired for his innovative solutions to seemingly intractable conflicts and problems in the fields of international and environmental law. He was a global citizen, an avid sailor, and a lover of Plato's works and the Maine coast. He is survived by his wife Susan Cooke, his daughters Melissa and Meredith Bates and their mother Elizabeth MacGregor Bates, and his brothers Gregory and Thomas Bates and sister Susan Lowder. Those wishing to make a donation in his memory can contribute to the Delta Education Collective at https://www.deltacollective.org/donate a nonprofit inspired by his ideas and suggestions to advance primary school education in Uganda through collaborations between parents, teachers, students, and community leaders.
Jeff’s legal practice involved environmental and international law matters that often took him far afield, but his heart, aside from his family ties, was centered in Maine and all it represented, including the strength and integrity of its inhabitants, its rugged landscape, and its beautiful ocean waters and coastline. After leaving Chebeague, which he first discovered through the fog of a magical sailing trip, he enjoyed many happy days at vacation homes close to the sea in Harpswell.
Arrangements are private and under the care of DeVito Funeral Home of WATERTOWN. Please visit devitofuneralhome.com to view an online guestbook.