Michael Drew Bates

Michael Drew Bates went home on the morning of Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. in Wichita, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family.

Born December 7, 1948, in Pender, Nebraska, Michael was the firstborn of William Franklin and Barbara Gay (Benton) Bates. He graduated from Pender High School in 1967 and went on to attend Nebraska Wesleyan University and the University of Nebraska Medical School. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology in Wichita and built his practice at Wesley Medical Center, championing women’s health — including those with limited access to healthcare.

Michael was a dedicated father to Benton Jerome (BJ), Jocelyn (Jossie), and Kallie (Buehler) Hapgood. He was a lifelong learner: an Eagle Scout, pianist, pilot, golfer, Spanish speaker, and traveler. During a sabbatical in Barcelona, Spain, he met the love of his life, Carolina. Together, they split their time between Barcelona and Wichita for 20 years.

Though Wichita was always home, Michael formed many lasting friendships in Barcelona and was deeply loved by many around the world, especially his circle of golf friends.

He is survived by his wife, Carolina Bates; children BJ (Amanda) Bates, Jocelyn Bates, and Kallie (Scott) Hapgood; grandson, Miller Bates; sisters, Valerie (Brian) Redington and Sherri (Tom) Sobotka; nieces Chelsea, Sarah, Nikki; nephews Scott and Jason; and many grandnieces and grandnephews.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Project Access (A program of Central Plains Health Care Partnership), 1102 S. Hillside, Wichita, KS 67211.

Michael will be remembered for his deep devotion to family, unwavering loyalty to friends, and lifelong commitment to the Wichita community. He will be dearly missed.