JOHN L. YATES

Loving father and grandfather John Lee Yates, 86, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2014, at his home in Overland Park. Memorial services will be 4 p.m., Sunday, at the Amos Family Funeral Home & Crematory with visitation preceding the service at 3 p.m. John was born Nov. 26, 1927, in St. Louis, Mo., to Clarence Yates and Marie Middleton and was the oldest of three brothers. He graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended Washington University, both in St. Louis. John had a distinguished career in broadcasting that spanned nearly three decades. He began working in radio in St. Louis while still in high school and went on to write, produce and announce radio programs for the military where he held the rank of Staff Sargent during the Korean War. John began in television at KQTV Channel 2 in St. Joseph, Mo., but is best known for his longstanding role as weather anchor for KCTV Channel 5 from 1958 to 1981. John had a sharp scientific mind with a special interest in meteorology, astronomy and physics, and was a longtime audiophile who shared his enthusiasm and love of music with family and friends. He is survived by children Jan L. Soptic and Jill M. Bagby; son-in-law Michael J. Soptic; and by grandchildren Joe and Jeff Soptic and Sam Bagby. John's family is grateful to the staffs of Cypress Springs and Vitas Hospice for their care and compassion. Condolences may be expressed at www.AmosFamily.com The Amos Family Funeral Home, Crematory, Chapels. 913-631-5566 amosfamily.com