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Richard Yates Obituary
Richard (Rick) Yates, 44, of Ashland, passed away on Monday, July 2, 2007 at the Rogue Valley Medical Center with his family at his bedside. Rick died of complications from diabetes.
He was born in Apple Valley, California on March 15, 1963 to Ron and Judi Yates. He moved to Ashland, Oregon in 1971 and graduated in 1981 from Ashland Senior High School. After graduation, Rick worked as a licensed EMT III for Rogue Valley Ambulance and Mercy Flights.
Rick loved the outdoors and spent many years working and fishing at Howard Prairie Lake Resort in Ashland. Despite his diagnosis and challenges with diabetes, he walked for miles and managed to indulge in Mexican food whenever possible. Rick enjoyed family gatherings and took pride in teaching his two nephews how to fish and start a campfire.
Rick was preceded in death by his grandparents, Evelyn Yates Smith, Dorman Yates and Howard Hoskins; many golden retrievers and one special black dog. He is survived by his dad, Ron Yates of Phoenix; mom and stepdad, Judi and Jim Johnston of Ashland; sister, Susan Yates Miller, her husband, John, and nephews WIlliam and Bennett Miller; sister, Jana (Yates) Edic and her husband Chyle, of Portland; grandmother, Janice Hoskins of Phoenix; uncle, Bill Hoskins of Clovis, Calif.; great-aunt Hazel Palmer of Homeland, Calif.; and step siblings Chris Johnston of Ashland and Lisa Johnston Porter of Tigard. He is also survived by many cherished cousins.
Rick's family would like to thank the caring staff in ICU who practiced patient and family-centered care, providing him with a comfortable, dignified death.
Friends and family are welcome and encouraged to sign the Mail Tribune online guest book. A memorial service honoring Rick's life will be held Saturday, July 7, 2007 at 10 a.m. at Howard Prairie Lake Resort at the end of the jetty (wheel chair accessible) where Rick loved to fish. Following the memorial, please join the family for a time of sharing and reminiscing.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to DRP (Disabilities Recreation Project) in Southern Oregon. (www.drpinc.org)
Arrangements by: Litwiller-Simonsen, Ashland.
Rick will be greatly missed and remembered for his strong will and kind and loving spirit. He was deeply loved.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Yates
judi johnston
June 24, 2008
Rick, it's been nearly a year since you left us. As I re-read your obitutary and guest book, I miss you more than ever. Time has not healed or dismissed my grief, not even a little. I simply am learning how to relate to you differently. You are clearly here with me and have let me know in many ways. I thank God for all my memories that remind me of you; the little things, big things, silly, serious. They are all there and won't go away. You taught me so much and challenged me in many ways. My favorite reminder, "Mom, why do you do this to yourself." Your trait I most valued was that you cared more for others than for yourself. I have struggled through this past year without you and miss you beyond belief. However, I most want to remember your life and honor you for your constant compassion and unwavering loyalty. Thank you so much for always telling me you loved me. I will love you forever, Mom
Lois Bowman
July 18, 2007
I was so sorry to learn of Rick's passing. I worked with him a few years ago when he worked for Rogue Ambulance. Please accept my sympathies for your loss. Rick will be missed by all.
Jim and Carol Seidenglanz
July 16, 2007
Our deepest sympathy at the loss of your son Rick. May GOD give you strength through your time of sorrow.
Diane Berta
July 11, 2007
Dear Judi, Ron and Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my heart and prayers. Only our Lord can ease the pain in your hearts. He holds Rick in His loving arms. God Bless all of you.
Sincerely,
Diane (Rowan) Berta
Las Vegas, NV
Laurie Plemel
July 11, 2007
Dear Judi,
I am so sorry to hear about Rick's passing. I never met Rick but you spoke about him often when we were together. My heart goes out to you and your family and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you my dear.
Marilyn Schaffran
July 10, 2007
I only knew Rick for a short time, but what I knew of him was that he was a very special careing and kind person. My heart goes out to Judi and her family, I know so well what they are going through, as I am the mother of the dying friend of Ricks, that he cared for so well till the last. I know that they both have a special place in Heaven.
Suzanne Meyer
July 9, 2007
Dearest Judi, Ron, Susan, and Jana and Jan: my most sincere condolences to you and to all of your families. I know this is a time of mourning for Rick, and it is a hard road to travel. My love to you all, and please try to feel my arms around you all. I will never forget Rick's smile.
Suzanne Meyer in Victorville
Susan Yates Miller
July 9, 2007
I've been looking at the clock all day today knowing that just 7 days ago I sat at your bedside to say goodbye to you. I miss you so much; it's most difficult knowing I can't pick up the phone to talk to you. You would be so pleased to know how many people this past week have shared stories about your life and how much you meant to them. Along with the tears we have found the time to laugh as well; you can always count on your family to laugh together! You gave us all so many gifts.
The day you died we were told to "trust time" to help us heal. So, each day we will celebrate your life and remember to hold those dear to us even closer - to appreciate what we have. We love you forever. Love Sue, John, Will and B.
judi johnston
July 9, 2007
We are so grateful for all your loving comments and words of encouragment. Rick would have been stunned at the number of people who attended his memorial service at Howard Prairie Lake. The setting on the jetty was perfect with a cloudless blue sky and gentle breeze. Kind words, friends and family helped us celebrate Ricks life and journey heavenward. I am so grateful Rick knew his Lord and has a place in eternity. (Mom)
Lisa Black (Wion)
July 9, 2007
I first met you then got to know you Rick back in Highschool times. What a wonderful,real person you were. You had a heart of gold and would help out anyone who needed you. I will never forget how your smile and laughter would light up a room and always made me smile. I lost contact with you Rick quite a few years ago, but after reading about you, you were always a great person throughout your whole life. I am so sorry you had to deal with painful health issues, I can understand that personally and my heart goes out to you. May you Rest in Peace my friend. All of your family are in my prayers with my sincere sympathy and you must always remember the awesome memories you shared with Rick, because I can only imagine there were tons of them! Peace to all of you....
Judy Cheek
July 8, 2007
Judi -- Unless you have been there, I don't think that anyone can fully understand the pain that comes from the loss of a child. My heart hurts for all I know you are going through. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May the love and caring of all your friends and family comfort and support you in this very difficult time. Love, Judy
Connie, Darlene & Family Conlogue
July 8, 2007
Ron, Judi, Susan & Jana & Families Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. What a tragic loss.
TheresAnn Bosserman
July 8, 2007
To Rick's Family,
The death of a loved one is such a challenge for those of us "left behind". I, too, never met Rick, but knew of him through his dear sister Jana, who has been a close friend for years....Grieving is a profound challenge and my heart goes out to you. I believe in an after life, and I believe that Rick is dancing around and having a blast in heaven, now that he is free of his pain-filled body!
Take good care as you grieve the passing of this man.
Blessings,
TheresAnn
Dollie Morrall
July 8, 2007
Dear Judy...I was stunned as I read the note from Diane (H.S. Class Round Robin) about Rick's passing, and feel deeply for you especially, and for each member of the family as well. The article in the Mail Tribune is written so well...helping the reader to know Rick and what life meant to him. You are experiencing every mother's most difficult moment to face, and my heartfelt thoughts and hopes are with you as you negotiate the waters of grieving. I know that it takes time, support, and family, and that you will get through it well, because that's your nature. May God bless you each day with reason to smile, freedom to cry, friends to listen, and whatever else you may find helpful. Hugs...Dollie
Steve Hess
July 7, 2007
Condolences to the Yates family. Thinking of you. The Hess family of Ashland, Beaverton, and Sun City West, Arizona.
Linda Bowers
July 7, 2007
Dear Judi and Family,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your son Rick.
May you be comforted by all of the messages sent and by the love of Jesus, who takes care of us all.
Love and Prayers, Linda (Sanders) Bowers and Bob
Mary L. Flowers (Pratt)
July 7, 2007
Judi and Ron, I am so sorry for your loss. I have lost 2 family members in the last year and the pain is still there. I never knew your son, but Judi, I do know you. We were classmates at VVHS in 1960, the last of the 4 year Senior Classes at VVHS.
The Good Lord must have needed someone to teach others about Fishing to call Rick home over that "Rainbow Bridge"
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Denise Dorgan-Miller
July 7, 2007
Although I never had the opportunity of meeting Rick, I got to know him through my good friend, Jana. Something that's always helped me with somebody's passing goes something like this: "Maybe the twinkling of the stars we gaze at at night is really the light of our loved ones letting us know they are all right." Now that Rick doesn't have his failing body to deal with anymore, maybe he's just a shining star.
Denise Dorgan-Miller
Susan Kennedy
July 7, 2007
To Rick's Family, I was very sorry to hear the news that Rick had passed away - I haven't seen any of the family for a long time but i remember Rick as a laughing caring man - i will keep you in my heart and you are in my thoughts - Love Susan Kennedy
Lorri & Evan Wolfe
July 7, 2007
Dear Judi & family,
Our hearts are with you at this time. I do remember when Judi was expecting Ricky & the delight that awaited his birth. Celebrate his life & love.
Dolores Payne
July 7, 2007
Dear family of Rick,
Your mother and I went to Victor Valley High School and you lived right down the street from me and my family on La Paz in Victorville. You were a cute kid. We all knew that your parents cared for you because of all the activities that you were involved in. You will be missed by your family and friends. Respectfully, Dolores (Cormack) Payne and husband, Harry
Laura Lang
July 7, 2007
Judi and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Our children had so many great memories all your children and our children together. Rick was a very loving and kind person. We don't understand this loss but we do know we have a Savior who loves and comforts us when we grieve. I will be praying for your comfort.
God bless you,
Laura
Debbie Brunette
July 6, 2007
My deepest condolences to Rick's family for the loss of their loved one. While I only met Rick once, I felt like I knew him well through my dear friend Jana. He touched many and will be always be remembered for being such a good soul.
Helga and Bernie Binder
July 6, 2007
Dear Judi,
what a tremendous loss you have suffered. We can feel your pain and heartache. As know, our own son, only a bit younger, may face a similar fate eventually on account of his severe and persistent illness. Neither Rick nor he made a choice to endure such pain and suffering. While encountering Rick at Howard Prairie Lake we know him only to be kind, friendly and helpful. But we also know you, as his mother, have aways looked out for his best welfare and never shyed away from any challenges facing you as Rick's illness got worse.
We do hope and pray that the deep wound in your soul will heal over
time.
May God bless you and Jim as well as Rick's other mourning family members.
With sympathy and love,
Steve and Linda Buchanan
July 6, 2007
We have fond memories of Rick at Shasta Lake as our families camped together for many years. He was a very nice boy who was pleasant to be around and will always be a part of our "Shasta" memories. Our prayers are with you all.
Debbie Hoskins
July 6, 2007
Although I only had the privilege to see you a few times,I knew you were very special by the way your uncle Bill(my husband) would act in your presence. He has countless stories and pictures of you growing up,always to be shared with a smile.Bless you Rick for the joy you've given others!Our comfort now is to be w/you in eternity!
Gina Taylor (Hawk)
July 5, 2007
I will always remember Rick's warm smile and kind heart. Some of my fondest memories of Rick were stopping by his trailer after work and hanging out with him while he was studying for his EMT certifications. He would often get after me for not bringing my own homework to do. I was so blessed to grow up with Jana as my best friend. I had the wonderful opportunity to spend time with and get to know Rick, Susan, Judi, and Ron. I love you all and know that my prayers and thoughts are with you. Thank you Rick for touching my life with your constant smile and kindness.
Pam Shrader, Paramedic/RN/PA-C
July 5, 2007
It was with great sadness I read of Rick's passing. I had the privilege of going to EMT school and working with Rick as an EMT. I knew him as a gentle, caring and compassionate man. He always talked fondly of his family and the support they provided him even during hard, challanging times. Rick was the type of person who you could count on to lend a hand, and always had a kind word when he greeted you. I was not aware he had been fighting health issues over the last few years but know he faught a hard battle. My prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
ron yates
July 5, 2007
Well bud i'm sure going to miss you.You were not only my son you were a special friend.I remember when i taught you to fish when you were five years old at Big Bear.We had some great times on the Rogue fishing for salmon and steelhead, and we did pretty good. When we had our little farm you were always working with me side by side. There was a side of you that many people did not know. You were a compassionate and caring person. Most of all you were my son and i loved you so much. I will miss you Rick. Love You Dad
Ed & Betty Fisher
July 5, 2007
We First met Rick at Howard Prairie Lake,where we became friends and he would stop by our camp site and visit every time he went by, he always had time to hear all of your woes and you never heard him complain about anything or anybody, when we went to town, as we would turn out on the Hwy. there would be Rick hitch hiking and we would pick him up and give him a ride down to Ashland and if we were lucky we would catch him on the turn around and bring him back, we will always remmber him and our prayers go out to the family. ED & Betty Fisher.
Tara Diaz(cousin)
July 5, 2007
Cousin Rick you will always have a place in my heart. I will remember all the fun times we had growing up. We spent many summers at the lake camping and having some of the best times of my life. I can see you jumping from the boat into the cold water on a dare, you were the coolest. As I move forward in life I take these memories and share them with my children. Rick you will be missed dearly, Love always your cousin Tara.
Cheryl Robillard
July 5, 2007
Dear Judy and Family,
I am truly and deeply sorry to here the passing of Rick. The memories are so vivid of the kids walking to school together and playing.
I will keep all of you in my prayers. I know God will take care of all of you.
Love to all of you,
Cheryl (St John) Robillard
Janice (Gramma) Hoskins
July 5, 2007
Losing Rick, my first born grandchild, is painful beyond measure. I had the joy of seeing him minutes after he was born and for several years before he moved to Ashland.
When I moved to Oregon, I got to see Rick often and he lived with me for a time. He was always considerate and respectful and never left the house without giving me a kiss.
It seems impossible to think that I saw him only days ago and he told me he loved me. I was privileged to be with Rick when he passed away and I knew he looked peaceful.
Our family, each and every one of us, loved Rick. And he will be remembered in my heart always. At times we don't understand that God called him in his time, not ours.
Our family takes comfort in the fact that we love and have each other and that is important in our lives.
Rick had a faith in his heart and he knew what was right and wrong and wanted to help others. Rick touched many lives - more than he knew.
Jana Edic
July 5, 2007
It is impossible for me to believe that I will never see my brother again, at least in this lifetime. I will forever be grateful that I was his "little sister." (That is what Rick called me.)
Being with Rick in his final moments of life is something I will never forget, but it is a life time of memories that I will mostly
cherish.
He kept my secrets safe, laughed with me, was always proud of me, and consistently got on me if I talked bad about anyone. No matter how challenging his life got - he fought hard for his independence.
I thought Rick would outlive us all - I guess there was another plan.
I will miss him forever.
Karen (Conlogue) Tally
July 5, 2007
I remember Rick as a kind, outgoing person. His sister, Susan, and I spent a lot of time together and Rick was always a great guy to be around. I know he will be missed by all. My prayers are with you, Susan, Jana, Ron, Judi and families.
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Kathy Bowers (Freeman)
July 5, 2007
To Rick's family-
I am so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. Even though it had been so long since I had seen Rick, I will always remember what a wonderful family he had.
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mom (Judi) Johnston
July 5, 2007
The past few years were a struggle for Rick. He dealt with a devastating illness that separated him from the activities he so enjoyed with friends and family. I was amazed at his courage and stamina. He typically ignored the medical orders to sit down and do nothing. Rick walked miles, tried to eat whatever he wanted and probably lived well beyond expectations. Somehow, I think with God's grace, I mostly remember the gifts he had and the love he shared. Rick seldom had a bad word for anyone. His nurturing and compassion for those with less was a constant. His last few months were spent caring for a dying friend. Rick never saw himself as disabled and refused to use excuses for his condition. To lose my son is like ripping my heart out, but I have wonderful memories to last a lifetime. While God's purpose in all of this eludes me, I know Rick touched many lives. I will forever be grateful for the years we had with him. Losing my first born and only son leaves a huge hole in my heart, but I will treasure my memories and love him forever.
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