Christian J. “Chris” Bate

Christian J. “Chris” Bates, age 54 of Durand, died unexpectedly of natural causes, Saturday, June 6, 2026 while at work.
Chris was born on July 31, 1971 in Ladysmith. He was the son of Mike and Cathy (Vojtasek) Bates. Chris grew up in Ladysmith and graduated from Flambeau High School in 1989. After high school, Chris joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served for eight years. With his Marine Corps service, he saw the world. He was most proud of his time on the USS America and was named Marine of the Year for the Eastern Seaboard. Chris married the love of his life, Nancy Carter on January 16, 1994. Chris was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps and he and Nancy returned to Wisconsin. Chris attained his associates degree in telecommunications from WITC in Rice Lake (Northwood Technical College). Chris took a job with Nelson Telephone Company (Ntec) in Durand where he worked his entire career.
Chris and Nancy raised their family in Durand, where Chris was very involved in his children’s sports. He coached many years of softball, baseball, football, wrestling and basketball. Chris never missed a sporting or school event for his children. Chris joined the Durand Fire Department in 2007. While on the department, Chris served as a Lieutenant and Training Officer and was a current Senior Member. He was named the Durand Fire Department’s Firefighter of the year in 2014. Chris made lifelong friendships with his fire department family.
Chris had a passion for the outdoors, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, ice fishing, snowboarding, surfing, boating and going for hikes. He also enjoyed NASCAR races, especially going with his Dad and son on their annual Father’s Day trip to the Michigan race.
In June of 2025, Chris attained the title of “Papa” for his granddaughter, Hollyn. It was the title he was most proud of.
Chris is survived by his wife, Nancy, children, Sierra (TJ) Auth and Dane, both of Menomonie, granddaughter, Hollyn, parents, Mike & Cathy Bates of Ladysmith, sisters Kim (Steve) Sevals of Rice Lake and Nicki (Dustin) Bosteder of Conrath, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00PM-7:00PM Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at the Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand. Military Honors provided by the Durand American Legion Post #181 and a Fire Department Final Call will take place at 7:00PM.
Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.
Condolences may be made online at www.rhielfuneralhome.com.