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.
