William Joseph Coates

COATES, William J. – Age 85, of Flint, passed away Saturday, September 17, 2011 at Homewood Village. Mr. Coates was born July 24, 1926 in Flint the son of Frederick and Elizabeth Coates. He graduated from Flint Central High School and was a member of the Alumni Board. Bill served his country with the U.S. Army and was a member of the American Legion. Mr. Coates graduated from Baker Business College and Ferris State University. He was a third generation member of Court Street United Methodist Church, a member of United Methodist Men, Church Treasurer and served on the Board of Trustees. Bill was also Past President and 55 year monarch of Downtown Flint Lions Club, and a member and past President of National Association of Accountants. Mr. Coates joined Genesee Bank in 1951 as a teller and retired from the Purchasing Department as Assistant Vice President of NBD Bank in 1991. He loved going up to his cottage on Sand Point. Surviving are his wife of 57 years Joanne Coates, sons, Steven Coates, Jeffrey (Heidi) Coates, Brian (Tracy) Coates; grandchildren, Zachary, Joshua, Brandy, Amanda (Shane) Collins, and Brandon; great grandson, Antonio; several nieces and nephews. Friends may visit the family from 3 to 8 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. until the time of service at Reigle Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at the funeral home. Reverend Robert Wright will officiate. Burial will follow at Gracelawn Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to Court Street United Methodist Church or the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation.