Background
Bates, Robert Thomas was born on August 18, 1927 in Glendale, Oregon, United States. Son of Monte Allen and Elizabeth Beryl (Bunch) Bates.
Bates, Robert Thomas was born on August 18, 1927 in Glendale, Oregon, United States. Son of Monte Allen and Elizabeth Beryl (Bunch) Bates.
Student public schools.
With Southern Pacific Railroad, 1945-1963. Various positions from signal helper to signal maintainer. Chairman Local 152 Brotherhood R.R. Signalmen, 1957-1963.
Vice general chairman Southern Pacific General Committee, 1960-1963, general chairman committee, 1963-1967, vice president Western region, 1967-1970, secretary-treasurer Brotherhood, 1970-1977, president, since 1977.
Served with United States Naval Reserve, 1945-1954. Member of Elks; Masons.
Married Elizabeth Lenora Utt, February 13, 1949. Children: Frances, Rebecca, Martha.