Mike Yates

A wonderful partner, son, brother, and friend, Hardy Mike "Mikky" Yates was called home on Thursday, February 9th by our heavenly father. A kind, humorous, and God fearing man, he was respected and loved by all whose lives he touched.
Visitation for friends and family will be 6 P.M to 8 P.M on Friday, February 10, 2017. Funeral service will be at Grace United Methodist Church; 1402 Grape Street, Abilene, Texas on Saturday, February 11, 2017 at 11 A.M. Burial will follow the service at Elmwood Memorial Park; 5750 US Highway 277 South.
At 64 years old, he possessed a desire to lead a peaceful life. He loved arranging flowers and watching his favorite shows, Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. His delight to play the organ for Grace United Methodist Church was remarkable, and a source of peace for him as well.
Mike was born in Abilene, Texas on August 10, 1952. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1971 and remained in Abilene working for Bank of Commerce, North's Funeral Home, Dairy Queen, and Mrs. Baird's, he worked at Mrs. Baird's for 32 years in production and subsequently became inventory controller. Most recently he loved spending his time working at Gary's Floral Gallery delivering flowers and bringing joy and smiles to all who met him.
Mike volunteered for Big Country AIDS Resources and for a short period became executive director. He was also a member of Texas AIDS Resources Steering Committee, being active in AIDS awareness was just another remarkable act of kindness that Mike displayed.
Preceded in death by his beautiful mother, Mary B. Yates and his father Alvie "Cotton" Yates, he leaves his partner of 28 years, Rick Casarez; a loving sister, Alvilene Tatum; and two nieces, Laura Amy Clark and husband Scott; Jeanne Tatum; and his loving dog Buster.
The family suggests memorial donations in Mike's honor to rescue the animals.
Online condolences and can be shared with the family through www.elmwoodfuneral.com

Visitation

Elmwood Funeral Home
5750 HWY 277 South
Abilene, TX  79606
Friday, February 10, 2017
6:00 - 8:00 PM

Service

Grace United Methodist Church
1402 Grape St.
Abilene, TX  79601
Saturday, February 11, 2017
11:00 AM

Cemetery

Elmwood Memorial Park
5750 HWY 277 South
Abilene, TX  79606

Memorial Contributions

Rescue the Animals
5933 S 1st St
Abilene, TX  79605