Ronald Bernard Yates

Yates, Ronald Bernard

Ronald Bernard Yates passed away peacefully on April 15th 2021 at Pleasant Meadow Nursing Home, just 6 days before his 87th birthday. Ron was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, to Harry and Annie (MacKay) Yates and as the fourth of thirteen siblings. He was predeceased by his parents as well as Evelyn Saunders (Pat), Henry Yates (Ruth), David Yates (Theresa), Mable Quigley (Tommy), Garfield Yates (Teresa), Charles Yates (Sherry), Thelma McGarrigle (Everett), Sandra Glover (Jim), Robert Yates, Drucella MacKeigan (Carl). He is survived by two sisters, Doreen Favaro (Leo) of  Redford, MI, and Carol Ann Peters (Joe) of Peterborough, ON.

Ron spent his formative years in the Canadian Army (Germany), returning home to join the Glace Bay Police Force as an officer in their Motorcycle Division, after which, he moved to Toronto and eventually settled in Peterborough.

He enjoyed coaching Peterborough Youth and Oldtimers Baseball and loved the camaraderie of the Otonabee Oldtimers Hockey League.

Throughout his life, Ron had many passions. The most enduring were his love of gardening, communing with blue jays, telling “Big Fish” stories, and honing his skills as the “Chipmunk Whisperer”.

Ron was soulmate, best friend, and husband of Shiela MacKinnon for 58 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Donna Yates (Keith Nott) of Collingwood  ON, Ron Yates Jr. (David Peacock) of Peterborough ON, and Bill Yates (Dana née Dengler) of Roseville, CA. Ron was the beloved Papa of Alex, Ian, Sashie, Rylan, Ethan and Logan.

His absence will also be felt by the MacKinnon family, Claude (Bett), Elaine (Roddie), Bill (Sharon), Patricia (Suzi), Mary-Clare (Jerry),  and Anna-Marie. He was predeceased by Harold (June).

Thank you to Dr. Darlene Lunn, the staff at P.R.H.C. and Pleasant Meadow Nursing Home for the wonderful care they provided.

As per Ron’s wishes, cremation has taken place and, due to Covid, there will be no public services. When permitted there will be a private family celebration of life. In honour of Ron, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society or the charity of your choice.

“Bye for now. See you in the movies!”