Obituary of Donald W. Yates

Donald W. Yates, 80, of Vestal passed away peacefully with his family at his side, on Sunday, January 10, 2016. II Timothy 6...."the time of my departure is at hand. 7. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." He was predeceased by his parents, Oscar and Elizabeth Yates. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Doris Yates; his sons, Keith (Sue), Wayne (Ernesto), Rev.Timothy (Barbara); his daughters, Susan Ritchie (Bill), Julie Lewis (Mark), Laura; grandchildren, Valerie Jones (Jeff), Natalie Hoffer (Doug), Jonathan (Katelyn), Janine, Karen, Trisha, Nathan Yates; Paige, Katelynne, Cassie, Lucas Ritchie; Tim, Nick, Mikayla, Josh, Rachel, Kelly Lewis; three great-grandchildren, Savannah, Garrett, Blake Jones; one brother, Rev. James Yates (Shirley) and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was a graduate of Vestal Central High School, class of 1954, played on Dick Hoover's football team for several years. He attended Moravian College in Bethlehem, PA where he also played football. He was employed by IBM Endicott for 33 years. After his retirement he took courses and became a certified Reflexologist in 1998, having a real desire to help people with their aches and pains. He loved helping and serving others in any way he could. Don loved and served his Lord for many years. He was active in several churches during those years. In the Tracy Creek Christian Union Church he was song leader, choir director and Sunday School teacher. He was currently a member of First Baptist Church in Vestal Center. He had a beautiful baritone singing voice similar to George Beverly Shea and would sing many solos using many of the old hymns sung by him. He also loved singing with the Binghamton Community Gospel Choir, led by Jan Judge. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially ice fishing. Calling hours are Sunday, Jan. 17 at Colman & Daniels Funeral Home, LLC, 765 Main St., Vestal from 2:00 to 5:00 pm and the funeral on Monday, Jan. 18 at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 1900 Vestal Road, Vestal at 12:00 noon. The family would like to thank Dr. Vincent Leonti and his staff at UHS, Endicott, the nurses from Twin Tier Home Health for their compassionate care and also the nurses at Wilson Hospital ER and third floor cardiac/pulmonary unit for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, please consider a charity of your choice .