HUDSON "BUD" LEVERT BATES JR. 54, went to be with his Heavenly Father at 1:15 pm on Monday, February 18,2013. He was born on August 26, 1958 in El Campo TX. to Hudson "Cuder" and Eunice E. Wilson Bates. Bud fought a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's.

Bud graduated from Palacios High School. Growing up shrimping with his father, he chose to follow in his father's footsteps and began his own career in the shrimping industry. One of the most exciting days of his life was when he purchased his bay boat which was coincidentally named "Linda". He absolutely loved shrimping and being on the water. Sports was one of Bud's favorite pastimes. He was a true "Shark Fan" and always looked forward to Friday night football games.

He was preceded in death by his father.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Linda Ramsey Bates. Bud was an amazing father to son Hudson Merle Bates, his wife Amanda, and a daughter Tess Elizabeth Bates all of Palacios He has two precious granddaughters – Alyssa Keely Bates of Victoria and Haislynne Jo Bates of Palacios. He is also survived by his mother, sisters Cheryl Todd, Rhonda Glenn, Velenda Brune, and a brother, Brian Bates. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Bud.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 20th from 5-7 at the Palacios Funeral Home. Services will be Thursday, February 21, 2013 at 2:00 pm at the First United Methodist Church of Palacios. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Serving as pallbearers are Allen Morrison, Jr., Brian Bates, Jr., W.C. Greenlaw, Garry Seaman, Greg Seaman, and Scott Kurtz.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Palacios or to Houston Hospice. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home (361) 972-3286.