Robert A. Yates

Robert A. Yates, Sr., 83, of Springfield, died at 3:50 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2009 at St. John's Hospice. Robert was born January 18, 1926 in Decatur, the son of Aaron Benjamin and Helen Lillian Whitmore Yates. He married Martha Kathryn Burge. She preceded him in death. He later married Mary Cue. She also preceded him in death. Robert was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving during WWII. He was employed as a forklift driver for Allis-Chalmers and retired after thirty-five years of service. Robert was a life member of the VFW in Havana. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking. He is survived by three children, Robert A. (wife, JoAnn) Yates, Jr., Daniel L. (wife, Marsha) Yates and Brenda K. (husband, Billy, Jr.) Walters all of Springfield; two stepchildren, Willa Boyer of Mason City and Bonnie (husband, Frank) Arnold of Springfield; several grandchildren and several great-grandchildren Family will receive friends from 5:00 8:00 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral ceremonies will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Vaughn Beeman officiating. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following ceremonies. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Hospital, Hospice Program, 800 E. Carpenter, Springfield, IL 62702.