Obituary

Robert Keith Yates

June 30, 1953–January 16, 2022

Robert Keith (Bob) Yates peacefully passed away with family by his side at home, on January 16, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Bob was born in Dayton, Wash., to Keith Odaville Yates and Yvonne Irene (Childs) Yates on June 30, 1953. Bob attended school in Dayton, graduating with the class of 1971. He lived most of his life in the Dayton Community that he loved. Bob did live briefly in the Tri–Cities, Wash., where he married Sue Paul and had two daughters, Jessica and Robin. Following a divorce, Bob moved back to Dayton, where he enrolled at Walla Walla Community College and earned his degree in Engineering Technology and Cartography. He then began employment with Columbia County in the Road Department.

Bob married the love of his life, Darbie Bailey on January 4, 1986. Two young boys came with that marriage, Tim Yates and Shawn Yates, whom he adopted.

Bob had a successful career with Columbia County for 30 years, retiring in 2019. He loved exploring the land and bridges for work and also loved horses, camping with his family, yearly beach trips, geology, and playing his many guitars.

Our dear husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend left us too soon. Angels have taken him for one last fly over inspection of Columbia County's many roads and bridges, mountains, and creeks, that he loved and knew by heart.

He is survived by his wife, Darbie Yates, children Jessica Yonce, Robin Yates, Tim Yates, Shawn Yates, siblings Kathleen, Jeanette and Tom, eight grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

The family had a Celebration of Life at the Best Western Hotel in Dayton–Palouse Room; it was open to all who loved and cared for Bob.

Donations can be made in Robert's name to the Blue Mountain Historical Society, PO Box 163, Dayton, WA. 99328