Doris Bates

Doris Marie (Savage) Bates went to meet her Father in Heaven on Sunday, June 28, 2015. She was born June 8, 1925 in Prescott, Arizona. The daughter of Emmett and Marie Savage, she grew up in Humbolt, Arizona, and later in Wickenburg. Doris had a great passion in life, and that was her horses. She raised and trained prize-winning trick horses, two of her very best being Rusty Cimmaron and Nomalee, and the three of them were involved in many rodeo activities and parades together. She had a way with horses that was a true God-given gift. They were her life and love, and she was theirs. An unbreakable bond. Doris had her own registered brand: "The Spur Arrow." She also spent much time working cattle ranches, including the Fain Ranch in Yavapai, the Kay El Bar Guest Ranch in Wickenburg, and the Champi Ranch in Castle Hot Springs. While at the Kay El Bar Guest Ranch, she met Ray Bates. They were married in 1970, moving to Champi and later to Aguila. Spending her whole life in Arizona, Doris was a "true cowgirl" in every since of the word. Gritty, and strong, with an undeniable will-power, she was "real" with the world, never having lived anything less than her authentic self. Today her boots stand empty, worn and torn from the incredible life she lived. She gave it all she had to give, and then some. Doris is proceeded in death by her late husband of 42 years, Raymond Bates. Her parents, Emmett and Marie Savage, and her brother, Gordon Alexander Savage who was killed in action, WWII - Okinawa - 1945. She is survived by her youngest brother, Emmett Duane Savage and sister-in-law, Sallyann Savage of High Rolls, NM. Her niece, Pam Savage-McNett, and husband Dan of Alamogordo, NM. Her nephews, Jon Savage of Waldorf, MD, along with Ron Savage and Seth Gowans of Dallas, TX. So very loved, she will be deeply missed by her family, and the many friends who treasured her. "Saddle-Up, Doris. Ride Free with the Western Wind, and feel the richness from the colors of your beloved Arizona sunsets sweep across your sweet face." - Pam Graveside services will be held on Monday, July 6, 2015 at 9:00 AM at the Wickenburg Municipal Cemetery with a memorial service to follow at the Aguila Community Church at 11:00 AM with Pastor Dan Carlson officiating. Friends may offer online condolences at www.wickenburgfuneralhome.com Arrangements under the direction of Wickenburg Funeral Home and Crematory