[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 91 (Tuesday, May 25, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E576]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF MR. RICHARD BATES

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                             HON. TED LIEU

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 25, 2021

  Mr. LIEU. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of Mr. Richard 
Bates, who passed away outside Washington, D.C., on December 31, 2020. 
He was a beloved husband, father, and community member.
  Mr. Bates was born in Washington, D.C., on September 2, 1950 to Can 
and Sylvia Bates. In 1978, he married his best friend and the love of 
his life, Rose Bates. He served as executive director of the Democratic 
Congressional Campaign Committee before joining the Walt Disney 
Company, where he worked for 30 years. He opened Disney's first 
Washington, D.C., office, and served as the Senior Vice President of 
Government Relations.
  Richard's loved ones, friends, and colleagues remember him for his 
compassion, sense of humor, and kindness. He was a passionate advocate 
for the creative industries and was well-respected for his skill and 
knowledge in his field. In 2018, he was elected to the board of 
trustees of an advocacy organization fighting for free speech and 
working in communications policy issues, the Media Institute. Most 
importantly, he was dedicated to his friends and family, and inspired 
those around him to do what they love and follow their dreams.
  Richard is survived by his wife, Rose; two sons, Ricky (Noelle) and 
Chris; brother, Robert (Judith); and other relatives. He will also be 
missed by his canine-granddaughter, Betty.

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