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IN LOVING MEMORY OF Anthony Lonnie Yates
Anthony Lonnie
Yates
March 31, 1943 – July 19, 2020
Anthony Lonnie Yates's Obituary
Anthony Lonnie Yates
March 31,1943 - July 19, 2020
Anthony Yates passed away in his sleep June 19, 2020 at the age of 77. He was born and raised in Durant Oklahoma, the seventh of eight children. Growing up on a farm instilled a work ethic that he carried throughout his life as an Air Force and civilian firefighter, long haul truck driver and business owner. He was never able to sit still, there was always work to be done on the job, around the house or helping family and friends.
He graduated from Durant High School in 1961 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. While stationed at Fairchild AFB in Spokane, WA he met and married Ann Wetzel. After leaving the service, he worked a number of jobs and they moved around until settling in Houston, TX. In 1987, he moved the family to Denton, TX while working as a truck driver. He eventually became an owner/operator for North American Van Lines. After retiring from the long-haul life, he started Tony's Clean Sweep and spent the next several years as owner/salesman/driver/mechanic for his business.
Tony loved being around people. He liked to tell jokes, listen to music, and would talk about anything from the weather to family to classic cars- especially Cadillacs. He was generous with his time and knowledge. He was happy to teach you what he knew...not necessarily patiently, but thoroughly.
During the 1990's he found a hobby with the Cadillac LaSalle Club of North Texas. He restored a couple of classic Caddies and eventually became an officer of the club, but more importantly found a group of friends which became family to him.
As he began losing his memory, the saddest part was forgetting the network of friends he had built. He might have forgotten names and faces, but anyone who sat down with him would hear a joke, a story, or an opinion.
The family would like to thank the staff and residents of Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation and Leonard Manor for their compassion and patience, and for sitting with him as he took his last breaths.
Tony is survived by three siblings, his three children, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and countless extended family and friends.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Anthony Lonnie Yates, please visit our flower store.
Funeral Services for Anthony Lonnie Yates
Memorial Service
July
26
Bill DeBerry Funeral Directors
Starts at 12:00 pm
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