Timothy Robert Yates

Timothy Robert Yates
1968-2026

Tim Yates, 57, of Elizabethtown, PA died peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with his wife, Stephanie Allen and his cat, Goose by his side. He was born in Southampton, NY to Robert La Mar Yates and Lois P. Holmes. He was raised on Long Island by Robert and his second wife Patricia M. Yates.

He followed in his father’s footsteps and was a lifelong member of the Scouts where his proudest moments included being tapped into the Order of the Arrow by his brother and earning his Eagle Scout Award. He worked many years at Baiting Hollow Scout Camp where “Bongo” made lifelong friends. He also loved his Campmaster Weekends with his brother-in-law Ed at Bashore Scout Reservation.

After graduating from East Hampton High School, he attended culinary arts school before working for A.S.K. and The Hershey Company. He then began a personally meaningful career as a security officer at Thaddeus Stevens College followed by Elizabethtown College.

Tim was a big bear of a man, with a kind soul, who was willing to help others. He loved collecting, especially Captain America comics, Godzilla figurines, black bears and model trains. He enjoyed traveling - especially his trips to Alaska, Scotland and Disney World with Steph.

When at home he could usually be found with a cat in his lap. He was the Best Cat Dad Ever.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his mother, Patricia McSparran Yates, siblings J. Mitchell Yates (Robin) and Amy Zabiegalski (Ed), nephew Robert Yates (fiancée Morgan) and several other nieces and nephews (who will greatly miss Uncle Tim).

Because Tim never met a Hot Dog or Barbeque he did not want to try, instead of a formal service we will be holding a backyard bash around the fire pit in his memory. Details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Tim’s memory to Baiting Hollow Scout Reservation Alumni Association, 1774 Sound Ave, Calverton, NY 11933.

For service updates and to share condolences visit BuseFuneralHome.com