Obituary of Andre Bates

Andre Bates departed this life on October18,2021 surrounded by loved ones. Andre was born March 26, 1966, in Chicago, Illinois to Betty and Thomas Johnson. Andre grew up in Kalamazoo, MI where he attended Kalamazoo Public Schools. After high school he joined the Marines where he served our country for four years and he received an honorable discharge. He married Antonella Byrd whom he shares a daughter with. Andre was a devoted father, son, brother, uncle nephew and a great friend to many. The love he had for his daughter and family was unmeasurable. Andre was one of the most kindhearted and caring person that you could ever meet, he did not hesitate to help out when needed. He was a very compassionate person and played a big part in being the protector of the family. If you had the privilege of being presence or on his family and friend lists you would have experienced his heart of gold. Andre is preceded in death by his mother Betty Jo Johnson, his maternal grandparents Flossie and Mose Bates, paternal grandparents Richard and Mayme Johnson, bonus grandfather Nash Nealy, and cousin Elijah Roberson. Andre leaves to cherish his memory his wife Antonella Byrd, daughter Shalen Bates, of Kalamazoo, father Thomas Johnson, of Manassas, Virginia. His siblings Tangie Bates (Ron)and Regina Johnson (Chris) of Kalamazoo, and Denise Alexander of Chicago, Illinois, and Thomas Johnson Jr (Kathia) of Manassas, Virginia. A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, best friend Keith Cameron, and his buddy Sharon Brown. Although Andre has left this life, his memory will continue to live on within the thoughts and hearts of all that knew him, he will be truly missed.