DONALD “PETE” YATES
Donald “Pete” Yates, 80, of Revere, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics while receiving palliative care, with his loving wife and two sons by his side.
Pete was born on May 8, 1946, in Keokuk, Iowa, to H.M. “Breek” and Bertha (James) Yates. He and his twin sister, Suzie, were the sixth and seventh children born into the family. Pete attended Luray Grade School and graduated from Kahoka High School in 1964. In November 1967, Pete went on a blind date and met the love of his life, Janice (Beye) Yates. The couple married on February 17, 1968, and shared 58 wonderful years together. Their marriage was blessed with three sons.
Following graduation, Pete enlisted in the United States Marine Corps through the “Buddy Plan” alongside his lifelong friend, Ranny Harris. They departed for active duty on September 9, 1964, proudly serving three years in the military. Pete served in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966 and was awarded two Purple Hearts and the Navy Commendation Medal for his service and sacrifice. Upon returning home, he was stationed in San Diego as a postmaster, where he obtained a government security clearance. Once he came home, Pete worked alongside Gene Armstrong before attending Quincy Technical School through a VA educational benefit, where he studied drafting. He later worked for Hubinger and Henniges before beginning a long career with Trellix Morse, designing black rubber molds until his retirement in May 2008. During his time there, he earned the title of Associate Engineer and also served in leadership roles as foreman and plant manager. His expertise took him around the world, including assignments in Sweden, Mexico, California Naval Bases, and gold mines in Alaska to troubleshoot and resolve product issues. His military-obtained government security clearance allowed him access to many of these specialized locations.
As a gifted athlete, he held the Kahoka High School record in the 100-yard dash for many years and proudly competed at the Missouri State Track Meet. Pete also excelled in athletics during his military service, playing center field for the Marine Corps baseball team against numerous small colleges throughout California. Known for his strong and accurate throwing arm, he was invited to attend Santa Clara University and join their baseball program. Back home, Pete helped establish the Wayland Ball Association in 1975 alongside several close friends. He played fast-pitch softball for the Wayland team and in 1981, the team won its conference championship advancing to the district competition in Springfield, Missouri.
He then coached for Wayland for many years while his sons played. Pete also treasured time spent hunting, fishing, and making memories with family and friends, his boys and grandkids especially.
Pete was also a founding member of the VFW Post 4342 in Kahoka, Missouri, in 1982, also serving as Post Commander and Vice Commander several times. He deeply valued the camaraderie and fellowship it provided and took pride in participating in community events, Color Guard in parades, and serving in military funeral honors, presenting flags to grieving families.
Pete was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Virgil and LaWanda Rockhold and Donald Beye; his beloved son, Rodney, in 1997; brothers, Elmer, Bill, Bob, and Gene Yates; sisters, Sandra Wagers and Suzie Hopp; sisters-in-law, Delphine and Melba Yates brothers-in-law, Donnie Wagers, Vernon Hopp, Kevin Rockhold; nephews Jim, Mark, and Randy Yates, and niece Gina Beth Yates; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Janice Yates; sons Rowdy (Kyla) Yates of Revere, Missouri, and Robert (Heather) Yates of Konawa, Oklahoma; seven grandchildren: Kailynn (Dean) Ekle, Danielle Yates, Bryan Yates, Tucker (Jessica) Yates, Rebecca Yates, Zachery Yates, and Preston Yates; and eight great-grandchildren: Aiden Miller, Carson Ekle, Ava Barnard, Drew Ekle, Ezra Ekle, Wesson Yates, Lynndie Ekle, and Ember Yates; his brothers-and sisters-in-laws, Linda Yates, Sharon (Ray) Flint, Randy (Kim) Rockhold, Brent (Teresa) Rockhold, Denise (Mike) Cooper, Teresa (Bill) Hendricks, and Steve (Nina) Beye.
Pete will be remembered for his patriotism, athletic ability, work ethic, dedication to family, and unwavering commitment to his community and fellow veterans. His legacy of service, love, and friendship will live on in all who knew him.
Visitation for Donald “Pete” Yates will take place on Sunday, May 31, 2026, between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am, on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Wilson & Triplett Funeral Home in Kahoka. Bro. James Leezer will officiate. There will be a graveside service at Kahoka Cemetery, immediately following the funeral with full military rites with the U.S. Marine Honor Guard, American Legion Post #192, and V.F.W. Post 4342.
Memorials in Pete’s name may be sent to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, or any charity of preference to the donor, in memory of Pete Yates.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.wilsontriplett.com
