Willis J Coates

Willis J. Coates, age 91, a longtime resident of Bear Creek in Ormond passed away March 22, 2015. He was born Jan. 12, 1924, in West Haverstraw, NY to parents Agustus, Sr. and Margaret (Sherman) Coates. Mr. Coates was one of six children and attended Haverstraw High School. Willis joined the U.S. Marines at 17, served from September 10, 1942- Nov. 9, 1945. He then attended Coyne Electrical School in Chicago, IL. Willis joined Local Union #363, IBEW and worked 38 years as an electrical foreman in heavy construction. From 1960-65 he competed in the National Rifle and Pistol Matches at Camp Perry, OH where he won many trophies and medals. He retired to Bear Creek in Ormond Beach in 1986. Willis was preceded in death by his son, Brian Hanley; sisters Catherine Kovach, Muriel Williams, Avis Wolfing and brother Agustus Coates, Jr. Willis is survived by his sons Michael (Kathi) Coates, Scott (Barbara) Hanley, Keith (Laura) Hanley, Kevin (Lenith) Hanley; sister Germaine Springstead; 11 grand-children, 9 great-grandchildren. A visitation will be held at Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, Ormond Beach from 11:00- 1:00 pm on March 26, 2015, with a graveside service to follow at 1:00 pm at Volusia Memorial Park. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.volusiamemorialfunerals.com