David Leland Coates

He was born April 17, 1947, in Steubenville, Ohio, the oldest of three siblings, to mother Ruth A. Coates and the late Roy R. Coates of Weirton, WVa.. Survived by his children Derek, Ashley and Blair, his grandchildren Kassidy, Joey, Ayden and Dagen, brothers Chuck and Drew Coates, his former wife, Deborah, companion Pam and extended family.

David graduated from Follansbee High School in 1965, West Liberty State College in 1969, and received masters degrees from both West Virginia University and Xavier University.

After his graduation from WVU, David became the youngest elementary school principal in West Virginia. He later went on to work in hospital administration after attaining his second masters from Xavier. This career path took Dave and his family across the country, including Tennessee, Michigan and Arizona.

David was an avid sports fan and loved all things Pittsburgh. He loved life, laughing and brought smiles to many with his quick wit and contagious grin. He was the first and last on the dance floor, loved music and the company of good friends and family. He loved his home state of West Virginia and his life in the deserts of Arizona.

Dave's family and friends celebrated his life at a private gathering Thursday, April 4.