Franklin Yates

Franklin Don Yates “Frank” died peacefully surrounded by his family, on December 7th, 2025. Frank was born on April 10, 1943, in Ottawa, KS to Wilbur and Letha (Allen) Yates.

Frank graduated from Ottawa High School in 1961. After high school he attended Kansas State University. He then attended a business school in Topeka, KS. Then he started an accounting job in Kansas City making the commute by carpooling with others. When his city adventure concluded he settled back into farming his family’s land that has now been in the family for well over 100 years.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his brother David Yates, his sister Sally (Yates) Kramer and his brother-in-law Michael Brooks.

Frank married Mary Lois (Snell) on January 3rd, 1965. He is survived by his cherished wife of 60 years and their 4 children: Tammie (Rick) Dehn, Brian (Susan) Yates, Robyn (Erik) Klein and Crystal (Matt) Smith. He was the proud Grandpa to 8; Lauren (Cameron) Carollo, Brianna (Caleb) Parenti, Alyssa (Beckett) McQuitty, Brandon (Marlene) Yates, Morgan Klein, Gavin Smith, Ava Smith and Ella Klein. He was thrilled beyond measure to have also been Great Grandpa to his namesake Franklin McQuitty. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Brooks.

In all aspects of his life, Frank epitomized hard work, dedication, and family values. He will be greatly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was an entertaining storyteller who often had his loved ones laughing. He often created nicknames for others. His blue eyes would get wide when he was puzzled or shocked about something. This made him so very endearing and would always make his family laugh. Not great with technology, he loved to watch Tik Tok videos and would sometimes unknowingly make them himself.

He had a love for history and a curiosity like no other. Always wanting to learn about everything. Not really traveling when growing up other than visiting relatives in Missouri, after high school he took his first road trip with a friend, and they saw the Grand Canyon. He loved to travel and tried to visit as many states as he possibly could, sometimes driving an extra hour or 2 to hit a particular state. After his kids left the home, he and his wife would travel with the tour groups to many places around the states. In his younger years before children, he owned a boat and loved to water ski. He was a caring Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa and loved to attend their activities.

Some of his interests include antique cars and tractors. He loved to participate in the Ol’ Marais River Run cruise night during the car shows each year. He also attended the Power of the Past Tractor and Engine Show where he brought his tractors. He enjoyed going to the dinner theater with his wife along with many concerts at the Ottawa Auditorium. He loved to watch Monday night Wrestling and Westerns on TV. In the 80’s he also enjoyed the prime-time soap operas.

A celebration of life will be held at Grace Community Fellowship 501 S Poplar St, Ottawa, KS on December 13th. A visitation will begin at 10:00 am with a service beginning at 11am.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, contributions may be made to Grace Community Fellowship where he and his wife attended.

To share your memories of Frank or to send a special condolence message to his family, please visit the guestbook below.