Janet MacDonald Bates died at her home in Warren, Connecticut on April 30th, shortly before her 99th birthday. She was born in Brooklyn, New York, the youngest of Alexander and Helen (MacLean) MacDonald’s four daughters. Janet graduated from Smith College in 1937. There, she majored in Art History, formed lasting and vital friendships with her Clark House classmates, and took memorable trips abroad which sparked a delight in travel. Janet married George P. Bates in January, 1942. Theirs was a devoted marriage until his death in 1999.

Janet's parents had spent summers on Lake Waramaug since the early 1900's; from Janet's earliest childhood, the Lake played a constant and special role in her life. The Bates family also summered there and Janet and George maintained this joint family tradition during the first decades of their marriage. When George retired in 1964, he and Janet moved to Warren permanently from Manhattan. As a lifelong resident of the Lake community, Janet was dedicated to keeping its waters shining and clear. She chaired the Lake Waramaug Task Force from its inception in 1975 until 1993. Janet’s vision, leadership, and unflagging commitment were instrumental in preserving this precious resource.

Janet deeply believed in service and the power of individual action as forces for good. Her volunteer efforts culminated in the Lake Waramaug Task Force but spanned many decades. They included Bundles for Britain during World War II, the Junior League of New York, the Hospital Visiting Committee of the New York State Charities Aid Association, with a focus on Bellevue Hospital, and the Spence School. Janet was also a member of the Conservation and the Inland Wetlands Commissions of the Town of Warren.

Janet was an avid gardener, gracious hostess, and keen observer of current events. She enjoyed a wealth of connections with family and friends throughout her long and active life. Janet is survived by her four daughters, Janet Poth, Ellen Prindle, Susan Bates, and Sarah Henry, nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and her beloved nephews and their families. Janet's grandson, MacLean Stevens Prindle, died in October, 1990.

A memorial service will be held at the Warren Congregational Church on Monday, May 18th, at 11am. Gifts in Janet's memory may be made to the Lake Waramaug Task Force, 19 Sackett Hill Rd, Warren, CT 06754.

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