GORDON WILLIAM YATES
Mr. Gordon William Yates passed away at the Red Deer Regional Hospital on December 31, 2013 at the age of 73. Gordon was born February 5, 1940 to Marion and Reginald Yates in Stettler. He grew up on the family farm at Westwoods and attended school there. As a young man he began farming at Gadsby. He operated a garage at Obed with brother David and in 1963 he came to Byemoor as an agent for the Pioneer Grain Company. December 31, 1964 Gordon married Carol at St. George's Anglican Church in Stettler. With Gwenda accompanying they settled into living and farming North of Byemoor and had two children Rodney and Carolyn. Involved with Byemoor Curling Club, leader of 4-H Beef Club, Member of Hall Board, Coaching Ringette and volunteering for other projects he jointly received a Community Service Recognition Award along with his wife. He loved being a steward of the land (farming), fishing at Blood Indian, camping with friends, challenging sportsmen at horseshoes and attending the annual Accordion Festival in Kimberley. He welcomed each addition to his family - spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren shared his love. He was dearly loved and will be mussed so much by his loving Wife Carol Yates of Byemoor, children: Gwenda Gravely (Robin) of Botha, Rodney Yates (Angela) of Byemoor and Carolyn Skaley (Lenard) of Stettler; grandchildren: Marley Gravely (Devin Tetz), Katelynn Gravely (Dylan Hudgeon), Sara Carstairs (Tyrell), Jessica Skaley, Jeffrey Skaley, Caylen Skaley, Allison Yates, Erika Yates, Rachel Yates and Ryan Yates; great-grandchildren: Karter Carstairs and Hadleigh Carstairs. Brothers and Sisters and families of: David Yates (Phyllis) of Calgary, Don Yates (Elsie) of Gadsby, Evelyn Haugen (Gilbert) of Hanna, Norman Yates (Jan) Lethbridge, Cecil Yates (Linda) of Castor. Mother: Marion Yates of Hanna. He is also survived by Carol's family Bill Mappin, Marie Campbell, Marguerite Brown, and Alberta Mappin, many other relatives and many very dear friends. He was predeceased by his father: Reginald Yates, Niece: Marsha Yates, Aunts and Uncles. Dad lived his life with Amazing Grace. His faith revealed from leading by example rather than imposition and guidance rather than opinion. He gifted his children with his time; we felt comfortable discussing news, politics and economics or simply sitting in silent contemplation connecting our souls and discovering joy and peace through him. Married for 49 years he loved his wife dearly and supported her art of quilt-making. September 3, 2013 family and friends began a journey with Gordon. A Brain Tumor operation that took twice the anticipated time was followed by many complications and challenges. 120 days many would feel a torturous experience Dad endured with courage and grace... Courageous Grace. Wish you could have seen his smiling face each time he acknowledged your get-well wishes and prayers of encouragement. Thankful to all that visited him in Calgary and Red Deer hospitals he looked forward to seeing more of you in Stettler in the New Year. He was overwhelmed by the love and support extended to him and his family by family members, friends, neighbors and community. Sentiments often shared of what a great man we had been blessed with having wonderful character and beliefs. How great thou art to be so revered. Please cherish your last hand shake or hug with Gordon not as "goodbye" but "until we meet again." Grateful to walk alongside you - honored to have known you - love you forever. A funeral service to commemorate Gordon's life will be held at the Byemoor Community Hall on Friday, January 10, 2014 at 1:00 P.M. As an expression of sympathy and in loving memory of Gordon memorial contributions may be made to a local charity of your choice in care of Brennen Funeral Home and Cremation Services who have been entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. 403.742.3315.
Condolences can be forwarded to the family by visiting our website at www.brennenfuneralhome.com.