Bates Warren Tunnell was born in Ada, Oklahoma in 1968. He lived in Davis and McAlester before settling in Pauls Valley in 1976. He loved growing up there and truly enjoyed his school friends in both Whitebead and PV. He graduated from PVHS in 1988. Bates was previously married to Amy Yeatts and was grateful for the time spent being a family with Amy and her son Tyler. Bates later lived in Norman and worked in several restaurants there.

Everyone who knew Bates admired his gorgeous hair, especially his curly mullet of the 80s and 90s. He inherited his dad's love of sports and his mother's love of cooking. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality, love of people, lasting friendships, and distinctive chuckle. He very recently became ill and entered hospice very soon after. He felt extremely fortunate for the exceptional home provided by Gospel of Life, a Catholic charity.

He is survived by his brother Bart Tunnell, and family Penny, and Amanda all of Norman and Ariel Tunnell of Los Angeles. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe Tunnell in 1984 and Sue Tunnell in 2020.

The family would like to thank Sister Maria and everyone at Gospel of Life and Elara Caring Hospice for their kindness and compassion.

Memorial service for Bates will be Saturday, November 29 at 11:00 AM at Wooster Funeral Home in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma officiated by Herman Stevenson. If you would like to send your condolences to the family you may do so at www.woosterfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers please donate to Gospel of Life at St. John Paul II Dwelling [ 4113 S. Eastern Ave. Moore, Oklahoma 73160] by calling, 405.378.2436 or going to their website https://www.gospeloflifedisciples.org/donate .