Howard R. Yates, Sr., 87, of 723 Pleasant St., in the Rochdale section of Leicester, died Monday, May 23 at Radius Healthcare in Southbridge.
He was the husband of Muriel E. (Bennett) Yates who died in 1984.
He leaves four sons; Howard R. Yates, Jr. and his wife Mary Pat of Blackstone, Paul R. Yates and his wife Linda of Eastham, John B. Yates and his wife Christine of Worcester, Dennis W. Yates and his wife Sharon of Plymouth, two daughters; Linda L. Carosi and her husband Ernest of R.I., Kathleen M. Paquette and her husband Arthur of Rochdale, 17 grandchildren and11 great-grandchildren.
Born in Worcester, he was the son of William R. & Margaret V. (Thompson) Yates.
Mr. Yates was a tool maker at Worcester Tool & Stamping in Rochdale for 65 years before retiring in 1984. He served his country in the Army during WWII. He was a member of the Rochdale American Legion. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, metal detecting, bowling and playing horseshoes. He played softball with the Worcester Tool Team for many years.
A Funeral Service will be held Friday, May 27 at 11 A.M. in the MORRISON-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester. Calling hours are 5-7 P.M. Thursday in the funeral home. Burial will be in Greenville Baptist Cemetery, Rochdale. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Leicester Ambulance Fund, 3 Washburn Square, Leicester, MA 01524.