Preston (Pete) E. Yates, Sr

Preston (Pete) E. Yates, Sr., 90, of Gainesville, GA. (formerly of Belleville, IL.) passed away Monday, Feb. 4, 2013 at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Mr. Yates was born on Jan. 24, 1923, in Norfolk, VA. to the late Everett and Ada Mae Yates. He retired from the East St. Louis Interurban Water Company after 28 years. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Mary Lee, and brother Everett Yates, Jr.

He is survived by his seven sons, Preston Yates, Jr., son, William Yates of DeLand, FL., son & daughter-in-law, Ronald & Lois Yates, son & daughter-in-law, Ricky & Terri Yates, son, Gregory Yates, and son & daughter-in-law, Charles & Jill Yates all of Gainesville, GA., son, Robert Yates of Belleville, IL., sister, Dorothy Edwards of Norfolk, VA, 16 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Mr. Yates served as past Commander of American Legion Post 58 of Belleville, IL. He was a Master Mason of Lake Lodge 72 in Lake Como, FL. and a 32nd degree of Scottish Rite of Free Masonry, Valley of Jacksonville, FL.

Mr. Yates also served his country during WWII in the United States Army having received the Purple Heart during his time of duty.

There will be a Memorial Service at the Gainesville Masonic Lodge #219 F & AM located at 621 Lakeshore Drive, Gainesville, GA. 30501 on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made to the Gainesville Masonic Lodge at the address above.

Those wishing to send online condolences may do so at www.masonward.com

Mason & Ward Funeral Home, 1190 McEver Road, Gainesville, GA is in charge of arrangements. (770) 287-0220