William “Willie” Yates

William “Willie” Yates, 70, of Ash Grove passed away Aug. 3, 2020. He was the son of Charles and Betty (Rasnic) Yates and was born in Ash Grove, on Sept. 26, 1949. On Dec. 23, 1969 Willie and Shirley Mae (Huber) were united in marriage. To this union they shared 50 years and were blessed to have twochildren, a son, Brian Glenn and a daughter, Kimberly Mae. Yates was a lifelong area resident and graduated from Ash Grove High Schoolin 1967. He enlisted in the United States Army right after graduation. He served with honor in the Vietnam Conflict from 1967-1970, winning the Bronze Star for actions in the Tett Offensive in 1968. He also served two years in the National Guard from 1972-1973. Yates is survived by his wife, Shirley Yates; son, Brian Yates and wife Amelia; granddaughters Chelsea Yates, Courtney Yates; brother Donald Yates; half-brothers Earl Cameron and wife Lestra, Wesley Cameron and wife Debbie; nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and many friends. Yates is preceded in death by his parents and daughter Kimberly Mae. Due to COVID-19, the family requests that the visitation be no contact. (No hugging or shaking of hands). Visitation was from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020 Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove. Graveside services were at 10 a.m., Friday, Aug. 7, 2020, at Sinking Creek Cemetery, Everton.