If you met Donald Ray Yates sometime between February 14, 1944, and August 28, 2024, I am certain there was something about him you liked. He was friendly, witty, and easy to talk to. He always loved sharing stories about his past experiences. Those stories included topics such as cattle, jewelry, family, God, and food. Don loved to eat! A hamburger steak or fried chicken was among his favorites.
Don owned Yates Food Center in Independence, Kansas, and a small purebred cattle operation on his farm in Coffeyville, Kansas. A soft tissue sarcoma cancer diagnosis in 1992 put Don in and out of the hospital for two years. His strong faith in God sustained him. Due to age and declining health, Don and his wife of 53 years, Alice, moved from their lifelong residence in Coffeyville to Sallisaw, Oklahoma, in 2014. With them, they brought Dons ‘ elder widowed mother, Lillian Yates. Don’s father, Carl E Yates, had passed away in 2012. The three transplanted Kansans enjoyed country living in Sequoyah County until the death of his wife, Alice, in 2017 and the passing of his mother, Lillian, in 2018.
Don grew up with three brothers: Carl Aden Yates, Daryl, and Roger. Carl Aden and Daryl preceded Don in death.
Don was easy to love and care for, and his son Tony and wife Trica considered it an honor to do so.
Don loved his grandchildren, Jarrod, Josh, Alyssa, Amanda, and Andrea. He was pleased when they showed interest in his Herford Cattle. Don could spend all day at the bullpens but chose to spend some time watching sports, his favorites being Kansas City Chiefs football and Royals baseball.
Donald’s passion for sports was about more than just watching. He was quite an athlete in his younger days and later coached some. He kept that interest alive and encouraged his ten great-grandkids to reach their full potential, attending as many of their activities as his health allowed.
Don had one Great Great Granddaughter who added joy to his day.
During his 80 years of life, Don met many people, made a few trades, and made a few mistakes, but overall, he considered himself a blessed man with a hope of life eternal.
Graveside funeral services will be held at Drakestand Cemetery on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 10:00 AM, with Jerry Green officiating.
Jarrod Yates, Joshua Yates, Bryce Milligan, Zayn Vinson, Jake Green, and Justin Green are Pallbearers.
Honorary pallbearers are Marty Green, Randy Sandlin, Jimmy Jackson, Jeff Beck. and Robin Kelton.
The family has entrusted the funeral arrangements to Forever Memories Funeral Services, INC, Sallisaw, Oklahoma.
I am sorry to hear of Don’s passing, my deepest condolences to Tony and all the family. I always enjoyed a visit with Don from my time showing in high school and then running into him at shows later. Always had a smile and friendly word and was proud of his family. May he rest in peace!
After reading the life story of Don Yates, it’s easy to see why he was so loved. What a remarkable man, caring for and moving his MOm and Dad when he and Alice moved to Sallisaw near Tony & Trica. We know this great godly man is STILL alive and WELL IN HEAVEN, joining his wife Alice, and his Mom & Dad. Our prayers are with Tony & Trica and all the wonderful Yates family.
Dear Tony & Trica,
So very sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad.
I know he was a remarkable and Wonderful Dad. Your Dad has Blessed so many lives and left a great legacy for his children and grandchildren!
Jana and I are praying for the Lord to strengthen and comfort you and your family, and fill your heart with His peace.
Each memory is a precious and priceless treasure.🙏❤️
Dear Tony & Tricia,
It’s never easy to lose a parent and especially both parents now. We know they are in paradise right now and have earned their reward for living a good life. Thinking of you both.
Renae Spears -Green ( My Gma was Lily’s twin sister )
I have very fond memories of Don and his family. They played very important part of my life as a teenager and gave me the opportunity to represent them in many show rings all over the State of Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas. Rest easy and I know in Heaven you will be getting the cattle all ready for us
Tony and Trica, What a great tribute to Mr. Yates. Never got to meet him when I was over there. Sounds like he was a wonderful man that leaves behind a wonderful legacy. You both did a great job of attending to all his needs. God bless you and yours. RIP Mr.Donald Yates.