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William Arthur "Bill" Yates, 86, Father of four, retired Department of Defense employee, farmer and resident of Crestwood Village IV  died on August 18, 2012 at Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey. 

Born on June 23, 1926, in Wilmington, Delaware to Kenneth Smith and Mary Lavinia Yates, Bill grew up in the town of Titusville, New Jersey, the sixth of seven siblings.  He attended  Titusville Elementary School, graduated from Pennington Central High School, and received permission to enlist in the Navy before his formal graduation in order to serve his country during World War II.  During the war he served on transport escort ships in the Pacific theatre. 

 After the war he attended Kent State University in Kent, Ohio under the GI Bill and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree.  Following his college graduation Bill married the former Maria Theresa Nunziato of Matawan, New Jersey; together they raised their four surviving children: Susan, Robert, Ellen and William, on a farm in Nanjemoy, Maryland.  Bill had a passion for farming which resulted from his work on the "Yates Home Place" and summer work on his favorite Uncle's farm -- his Uncle George.

Bill's professional life consisted primarily of service for over 30 years as a Budget Analyst for the Department of the Navy, where he worked from the Pentagon in Arlington, VA and offices in Crystal City and Ballston, Virginia.

He was an avid reader, nutritionist, greatly accomplished singer, wonderful dancer and community volunteer.  His other hobbies included farming, ping pong, horseshoes, hunting, fishing, swimming, financial management, watching sports on television and 'tinkering.'  For the past several years Mr. Yates shared a residence with Mrs. Mary "Mae" Dellner of Whiting, New Jersey and his constant companion, Grizzly the Cat.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers: Kenneth, Lewis, Richard and Theodore.  He is survived by his former wife, four children, twin sister Jeanne Marie Bickford, and younger sister Phyllis Elaine Marvin.  His energy, voice, dancing acumen, wit and passion for life will be greatly missed.

This memorial website was created by Bill's children who will always remember him fondly.

August 18, 2016
August 18, 2016
Hi Daddy: Dang I miss you. It's been hard without you. So much has happened and feel as if our family is fading away.  What keeps me going is what you and Mom have given me - strength, stubbornness, intelligence, steadfastness, hope, faith, independence, loyalty and sometime forgiveness. It's a struggle. It's a fight because when I felt like all was lost, Dad, I could call you. You were always there even if it was on the other side of the phone. 
I never knew the meaning of Daddy's girl until you left this world. I feel such a void - you were my cheerleader and believed in me and loved me unconditionally. Thank you Dad for loving me. I hope and pray for your eternal peace. And if there is a heaven, I hope that I will see you and see Susie again. Love, Dubee
June 24, 2016
June 24, 2016
Dad, I know that you did not believe in the after life but I feel your presence and know you are there. Yesterday, on your 90th Birthday the ceiling caved in in my bedroom. Luckily, Jake, me or our dog, Tucker were not in the bedroom where we sleep. We were downstairs.
It happened on your Birthday. You are the King of Safety. I did not know who to call because I always called you. I called an older client and told him I had to call him because you were no longer in this world. I do wish that I could have talked to you but this I know. You were there. I have decided to get the house done - do what it takes to get it finished. This was a fluke but there are so many other things that need to be done to make it safer to live. So, Daddy, thanks for the message. I hope you are up there with Susie. xxoo Dubee
April 20, 2016
April 20, 2016
Nice to see the commentary here. A major item is that for the past 8 years, prior to Uncle Bill's death, we talked for at least an hour each time he or I called. His consuming interest in family matters exceeded that of so many dads and I know my children and I truely appreciated it. He became a father for me and grandfather for my two children. He had a wit and intelligence that never decreased with age. What a legacy to look at! His sense of humor was wonderful. And I still would like to know what his soup recipes were. We agreed on most things health wise...and I miss him very much. I loved him as if he was my father.
August 19, 2015
August 19, 2015
Hi Daddy:
I miss you but feel your presence and energy every day. Thanks for making me such a tough girl! 
Love,
Dubee
August 18, 2015
August 18, 2015
Jane and I are remembering Uncle Bill today. I always recall his gentle and humble manner. He always seem to have time to talk and share. We have very fond memories of him and cherish the heritage he has passed on to us. We pray for his family today and wish them peace and comfort.
June 25, 2015
June 25, 2015
Mother used to joke that because she and Uncle Bill shared the same birthday it was easy for her to remember his birthday! And throughout the years she enjoyed celebrating their birthday by sharing cards, letters, visits or phone calls. I can still see her smile and hear his rumbly voice as they spoke together. A lesson for life: Always find a way to love and care for your family they are one of God's greatest gifts Love you Uncle Bill and Mother..
June 23, 2015
June 23, 2015
Daddy, I miss you more than you know. I have so much of you in me and you surround me with your love and energy. I drink out of your mugs, turn out the lights like there is no tomorrow, and so much more. I love you.
Dubee
June 23, 2015
June 23, 2015
Happy Birthday Dad -- I hope you're smiling today :-) Love from your son, Bobby
August 20, 2014
August 20, 2014
It's been awhile since I've contributed to this tribute site for my Dad, but that's not because I don't think about him. He's actually in my thoughts and prayers pretty much every day. I pray for his happiness through the repose of his soul, and ask others to do so as well. He was a man with good intentions and who did a lot of good things in this world...I miss him and learned a lot from him. The two years since his passing have zipped by all too quickly. We who remain in this world should not lose this lesson of fleeting time, but allow it to govern the way we treat our family and friends in this life, for it will truly echo into the next. 

Have a blessed day,

Robert "Bobby" Yates
August 18, 2014
August 18, 2014
I miss my Dad's physical presence and being able to talk to him but feel his energy and presence with me each and every day. I am who I am because of my Dad - strong, sensitive, and stubborn! My siblings - Susie, Bobby, and Billy - the same! Dubee (my name sake from my Dad)
June 23, 2014
June 23, 2014
You live in me and in each and every one of us kids. Thanks for being so tough and making us so passionate about everything we do in life. I miss you and love you Daddy. Dubee
June 23, 2013
June 23, 2013
Today is my Dad's Birthday & his twin sister, Jean. I miss my Dad but I feel him each day as he lives in me & us. In my Dad's death, I realized how much love my Dad had inside & gave to others. He was a tough man that instilled great values in all of us kids. There is not one day that goes by that I don't miss you Daddy. I love you
October 1, 2012
October 1, 2012
This tribute is to all of you who made time to join us on Saturday for the Memorial Ceremony and reception, and for all of those who could not make it -- thanks most sincerely from all of us in the William A. Yates Family -- Susan, Robert, Ellen and William -- for your kind words, support and expenditure in time and effort to comfort us in this our time of need. God bless you and thank you
September 13, 2012
September 13, 2012
I want to thank you all for your well wishes and help in this time of coping, grief and sorrow. From your prayers and having Mass said for our Father to providing directions to the old home place, address lists and constant willingness to help put together the Memorial Ceremony, your outpouring of support has been a grace to us. Thanks to all of you on behalf of the Bill Yates Family.
September 10, 2012
September 10, 2012
I am not sure if you all knew this but Dad loved tennis. He would watch it all day long if he could and would ask me if I had watched the tennis matches. He especially talked to me about Venus Williams who won yesterday. I was so reminded of this today and wanted to share my Dad's love of tennis.
He did get to see a match at the US Open in New York.
September 6, 2012
September 6, 2012
Uncle Bill was a big part of our lives (me, mother and brother). He actually cared about us and did not forget about us despite our living in NH. His passing is very hard for us. I'll never forget his voice- very unique :). God bless him.
August 28, 2012
August 28, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss. I consider myself fortunate to have experienced the deep affection and heard childhood memories shared by both our Mother (Lula Mary Pidcock Mohr) and her Yates Cousins. Your entire family held a special place in our Mother's heart.
August 26, 2012
August 26, 2012
We lived near the Yates family for years and many times visited their family farm in Nanjemoy. A great family. Mr. Yates loved his farm. I remember his sense of humor, intelligence and musical talents. By all accounts he lived a good life and I know he raised successful children. His was a life to celebrate!
August 26, 2012
August 26, 2012
I have happy memories of my Uncle Bill. Even though we lived in another country, when we came here to visit, we always enjoyed staying with Uncle Bill and family. I remember even then how he took great care of his health long before it was a polular topic in the news. My Mom loves to tell stories about them growing up and what a good, caring brother he was and what an amazing voice he had
August 24, 2012
August 24, 2012
Granddad will be missed dearly...I remember the fun memories when I was 3 years old of sitting on the big red tractor and exploring the well on the farm. In my adolescent years, I have fond memories of our fierce ping pong battles. He was certainly a avid player and loved the sport.. RIP...
August 24, 2012
August 24, 2012
So sorry to hear about your dad. Keeping you all in my thoughts.
August 23, 2012
August 23, 2012
my prayers go to the Yates family .my love to Ellen to be a good .and strong ,
August 23, 2012
August 23, 2012
Uncle Bill was my favorite uncle; he always was ready to go fishing with me when I was a child. I was always happy when Uncle Bull showed up. My mom, Jeanne Grace Yates, appreciated his concern. He encouraged her to get a garage door opener at our current home.
August 23, 2012
August 23, 2012
Though I did not know William Yates personally, I feel as though I did through Ellen telling me about what a great man he was and stories of growing up on a farm.
He will always be with you all because those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.
August 23, 2012
August 23, 2012
Aunt Jean, Dad's twin sister, mentions that they chopped down trees for Xmas. My Dad did this with us - the four kids and my Mom. He carried on the traditions. 
He also made sure that we could swim and that we took care of our teeth - things that were instilled in him from a young age.
August 23, 2012
August 23, 2012
In the last years of my Dad's life, I spent many hours on the phone talking to him. I could always talk to my Dad so easily. He was so sensitive and he always had time for me no matter what time of day or night. I will miss him so much.
August 23, 2012
August 23, 2012
I valued his company and continue to value the spirit of all his family members. You guys are carrying on his flame: thank you! I also remember so fondly our walks in his farm fields during several Thanksgivings. It was so good to see someone so happy in his element. And, darn, I see myself looking more and more like him and my Dad, his oldest brother, 'most every day.... - Brian
August 22, 2012
August 22, 2012
My Dad was an old school tough guy to the end of his life. He enjoyed singing, dancing and one of his favorite hobbies was financial management. In our formative years we lived in the country -- Nanjemoy, Maryland -- on a farm with 72 acres, which was his pride and joy. I will miss his wit, our occasional verbal jousts, and rooting for the Redskins with him. May God rest his soul.
August 22, 2012
August 22, 2012
My Dad was a health fanatic. Many times I rebelled against this but today, I am in a health and fitness profession which I attribute to him. Also, my immediate family (my brothers, sister and my Mom) were always influenced by his quest for health. To this day, we all try to exercise, eat right, and will never forget how important it is to take care of ourselves.

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Recent Tributes
August 18, 2016
August 18, 2016
Hi Daddy: Dang I miss you. It's been hard without you. So much has happened and feel as if our family is fading away.  What keeps me going is what you and Mom have given me - strength, stubbornness, intelligence, steadfastness, hope, faith, independence, loyalty and sometime forgiveness. It's a struggle. It's a fight because when I felt like all was lost, Dad, I could call you. You were always there even if it was on the other side of the phone. 
I never knew the meaning of Daddy's girl until you left this world. I feel such a void - you were my cheerleader and believed in me and loved me unconditionally. Thank you Dad for loving me. I hope and pray for your eternal peace. And if there is a heaven, I hope that I will see you and see Susie again. Love, Dubee
June 24, 2016
June 24, 2016
Dad, I know that you did not believe in the after life but I feel your presence and know you are there. Yesterday, on your 90th Birthday the ceiling caved in in my bedroom. Luckily, Jake, me or our dog, Tucker were not in the bedroom where we sleep. We were downstairs.
It happened on your Birthday. You are the King of Safety. I did not know who to call because I always called you. I called an older client and told him I had to call him because you were no longer in this world. I do wish that I could have talked to you but this I know. You were there. I have decided to get the house done - do what it takes to get it finished. This was a fluke but there are so many other things that need to be done to make it safer to live. So, Daddy, thanks for the message. I hope you are up there with Susie. xxoo Dubee
Recent stories

Sense of Humor & Missing my Dad

August 17, 2013

My Dad had a wonderful sense of humor. My older brother's sense of humor (Bobby) reminds me of my Dad's.  He has dry wit and this was much like my Dad's. 

My Dad was so kind and loving to me even when I made fun of him. I used to comment about his ears and my Dad would laugh along even though I do believe he did not like it.  He had a lot of patience for my jokes.

I feel my Dad every day in my presence. I have had a rough year missing my Dad but do know that he lives in me and with me.  I have come full circle as I was mad at God but know am starting to believe that he has put my Dad in my presence.

I miss the physical presence of  my Dad so much.  He comforted me when I was sad and I could call  him any time of the day or night.  I shall never forget my Dad.  I will always remain Daddy's little girl.

I love you Daddy.

Dubee

Memorial Ceremony Invitation

September 13, 2012

INVITATION TO MEMORIAL CEREMONY FOR WILLIAM A. YATES

LocationGeneral Greene Pavilion, Washington Crossing Historic Park, PA (GPS address: 1112 River Road Washington Crossing, PA 18977)

DateSeptember 29, 2012

Start TimeStart time is 11:30 AM Sharp, please arrive by 11:00 AM if at all possible

Agenda:                               Greeting ('Bobby' Yates)
                                              Opening Prayer (Uncle Bob)
                                              Musical Selection 1 (Musical Director:  'Billy Yates')
                                              Words of Inspiration
                                              Musical Selection 2 
                                              Eulogies (Please contact me if you'd like to eulogize Dad)
                                              Closing Prayer
                                              Closing Musical Selection

 Reception: will follow the Memorial Ceremony at the Cock n Bull Restaurant, Peddler's Village, Lahaska, PA at 2:00 PM.  It's about a 25 minute drive from the ceremony cite to the reception site.  GPS Address: Intersection of Routes 202 and 263    Lahaska, PA 18931

RSVP:  571-358-4561 or robertfyatessr@gmail.com (call if you have any questions please)

 

We hope to see you there -- God Bless!!

Announcement of Memorial Ceremony

September 6, 2012

Update #1 Posted at Noon, September 10, 2012

(Key changes are in red text)

Greetings Again, Friends and Family of William A. Yates:

This is Bob Yates again - hope you are all well!  Okay -- here's the update: Billy and I traveled to Washington Crossing Historic Park on Friday, then hiked through the woods on the NJ side to find the Old Yates Place (more about this trek at the ceremony but I DO want to thank Aunt Jean for her excellent directions!).  Billy and I also had lunch at the reception location -- the Cock 'n Bull Restaurant at Peddlar's Village in Lahaska, PA.  I will now share the latest (and hopefully final)  Memorial Service Plan/Agenda: 

Location:  General Greene Pavilion, Washington Crossing Historic Park, PA (GPS address: 1112 River Road Washington Crossing, PA 18977)

Date:  September 29, 2012

Time:  Start time is 11:30 AM Sharp, please arrive by 11:00 AM if at all possible

Agenda:                               Greeting
                              
                Opening Prayer (Uncle Bob?)
                              
                Musical Selection 1
                              
                Words of Inspiration
                              
                Musical Selection 2 
                              
                Eulogies
                              
                Closing Prayer (George?)
                              
                Closing Musical Selection

                                              Reception: will follow the Memorial Ceremony at the Cock n Bull Restaurant, Peddlar's Village, Lahaska, PA will begin at 2:00 PM.  It's about a 25 minute drive from the ceremony cite to the reception site.  GPS Address: Route 202 and 263    Lahaska, PA 18931

NOTES:

1) The Memorial Service will not be a liturgical Church Service out of respect for our Dad's wishes. 

2) In terms of roles -- I will be the 'Memorial Service Lead' and Master of Ceremonies.  My brother Billy will be the musical lead. 

3) A few items specifically for each addressee to consider:

               A)  if you wish to eulogize our Father please let me know and I will do my best to include you on the agenda. 

               B)  If you wish to nominate a song for one of the musical selections please let Billy (or me as a backup) know.  We know a few that were his favorites and Aunt Jean provided others but we would also value your inputs.  Billy as the musical lead would like to welcome any instrumentalists and singers that would like to join in the music during the service.  If interested, you can contact him directly at (301) 602-8391 or e-mail him at goal23@comcast.net .  Billy will have two to three microphones with stands and a mixer for any guitars that would like to plug into the sound system.  Tentative Musical Selections include:

·         Eternal Father, Strong to Save ·         My Wild Irish Rose ·         Moon River ·         Lil' Brown Church in the Dale

Again, please let Billy or me know if there are any further suggestions or recommendations -- until we make the final decision we are open to all ideas and sincerely appreciate your inputs!

          C) I am looking for volunteers to lead the opening and closing prayers - let me know if you would like to do one or the other.

          D) I am open to your agenda suggestions --the intent is to provide a fitting tribute to our father in accordance with his wishes.

            E) Ellen will play a central role as well, especially in the eulogies.

Closing Points:

I will continue to provide updates via e-mail and on this Memorial Site: http://www.forevermissed.com/william-arthur-yates/?utm_source=fm_emails&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=followup_1#about

I will mail out very basic invitations and will need an RSVP list of all who intend to be part of the reception to ensure we have adequate food and drink for hungry Yates Family members -- these will go out by the end of this week.  Billy and I spoke to Rich Yates (aka Skipper to some of us) on Friday September 7th and he informed us that he and Aunt Jeannie Grace (forgive my spelling) would be unable to make it.

If you think of someone else who should be included on this e-mail distribution please let me know and I'll happily include them.  The same goes for old fashioned US Mail (aka 'snail mail') -- if there's someone who isn't included on the e-mail distribution group that should be included in regular US Mail, please let me know and I'll include them in the invitee mail out.

Please feel free to call or e-mail me at the number/e-mail below if you have any questions (e-mail:  robertfyatessr@gmail.com Cell Phone 571-358-4561). 

On behalf of the William A. Yates Family I would like to express our gratitude for the warm sentiments that have poured forth and our great desire to see all of you in person at Washington Crossing State Historical Park, PA at the Greene Pavilion on September 29th for the Memorial Ceremony that commences at 11:30 AM.

Call or e-mail me anytime at all if you have questions.  God bless,

Bob "Bobby" Yates

Cell Phone:  571-358-4561
robertfyatessr@gmail.com

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