Dona M. Bates

Dona M. Bates, 71, of Sullivan, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Meramec Nursing Center of Sullivan.

Donna Marie Bates was born February 20, 1952, to William and Anne (VonderHaar) Bates in Saint Louis, Missouri. She grew up and attended school in Arnold, becoming a proud graduate of Fox High School.

Shortly after high school, Dona invested into her melodious voice by taking vocal lessons. She was often asked to sing at funerals and weddings before taking a leap of faith and auditioning for the Powell Symphony Hall. Her singing success furthered even more when she began performing within the Bach’s Society. Dona had a beautiful opera voice and could sing in several different languages.

Outside of her singing career, Dona was granted through the Des Peres Hospital to attend courses at the South County Techincal School where she became a certified monitor tech and continued a successful career with Des Peres Hospital.

Dona loved to spend time sewing, cooking, baking, and watching Disney movies. She also enjoyed antiques and voyaging on Saint Louis Carndinal Carnival Cruises. Dona loved her care team at Meramec Nursing Center. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

She is survived by her loving sister, Mary Ann Bates of Sullivan, Missouri; a brother, David Bates and wife Patricia of Springfield, MO; four nieces and nephews: Barbara, Angie, David and Chris; great nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Anne.

Arrangements for cremation have taken place. No services are planned at this time.

Friends may send their online condolences to Dona’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangement are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.