William Martin Yates, 89, of Rockford, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 25, 2020. Born January 19, 1931 in Chicago. Son of George and Nora (Monaghan) Yates. Attended the Illinois School of Deaf in Jacksonville, IL where he played every sport. United in marriage Phyllis E. Range on May 31, 1953. She predeceased him on December 28, 2008. Employed by Amerock for 42 years in the Tool & Die Cast department. William found enjoyment in fishing, bowling, going out to eat, watching the Chicago Cubs and the Bears. Every month he would visit the Center for Sight and Hearing for a monthly luncheon.
Survived by his daughter, Candace M. (Willie Steward) Yates of Rockford; sons, George M. Yates of Jensen Beach, FL and Steven R. Yates of Sierra Vista, AZ; sister, Sally Ritchie of Savanna, IL; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his spouse, Phyllis; sons, Richard and Kevin Yates; siblings, Pat Malay, George Yates, Lenoir Jaske.
At this time, no services are scheduled. Cremation Rites have been accorded.
