Tony Wesley "T.C." Yates

Tony Yates, one of Nantucket Island's entrepreneurs, died peacefully in his home on July 13, 2012. Tony's long and productive life spanned decades of achievements in military and civilian life. Born in Seminole, OK, on December 11, 1928, he grew up in Shepherd, Michigan, leaving to join the Merchant Marines as a millwright and then in 1952 to join the U.S. Navy. Serving with the Sea Bees, Tony arrived on Nantucket in 1955 as team leader for the construction of the Tom Nevers Navy Base, a SOSUS submarine listening post. Here, he met his wife, Grace Stanshigh, who helped him to build their lifelong home. Tony continued to serve his country in French Morocco, Cuba, Vietnam, Puerto Rico and many other state side sites. Senior Chief Petty Officer Yates was transferred to the Fleet Reserves in 1970 with two purple hearts and a Navy Commendation Medal.
While in the Navy, he became a renowned pitcher for fast pitch softball, winning worldwide championships, and later on Nantucket continued to enjoy and win the game with lifelong buddies, entertaining many summer evenings. To this day, he is still known as one of Nantucket's greatest softball pitchers.
When he transferred from active duty, Tony made his life on Nantucket. In those days, coming from "around the point" posed a challenge for a young man looking to support his family. But Tony met that challenge with his sparkling, steel blue eyes, firm hand shake and his inimitable charm. Typically, he was accompanied by one of his beloved black Labradors.
Before long, Tony became known as Nantucket's finest welder, and then started a propane gas business in 1973. With the partnership of his wife, his son, Gary, and daughter, Linda, Yates Gas changed the complexion of Nantucket's energy and transportation. Many years after Tony stopped working "in the shop" his family continues to hear stories of gratitude and fond memories of the man.
Tony was predeceased by his parents, Tony C. and Ruth Yates, an infant sister, Toni Marie, his older sister, Billie Baker and nephew, Greg Wallace. Tony is survived by his wife of 55 years, Grace, his daughter Leslie and son-in-law Willy Stoelzle, his daughter, Linda Yates, his daughter Lisa and son-in-law Andrew Hood, and his son Gary and daughter-in-law Ann. For many years, he enjoyed his nine grandchildren and was so very happy to meet his great granddaughter and great grandson this spring of 2012. He is also survived by his sister Bettye and brother-in-law Leon Wolf, his sister Mary and brother-in-law Bill Wallace, his brother Gary and sister-in-law Dora, his brother Hank and sister-in-law Mary, and his sister Suzanne and brother-in-law Robert Korinke, as well as by many nieces and nephews who continue to express appreciation for any time they were able to spend with him.
Tony Yates was not only a dedicated husband and father, but he was one of the most "real" people most of us have ever met. He was who he was, unabashed and most certainly unapologetic, but not always unashamed. His passion for knowledge was imparted upon anyone who asked and took the time to listen. He was fiercely loyal, belly achingly funny and captivated many a worthy hour with his stories. He lost no precious time on grudges and gave freely whatever was his to give. He could put your whole world into perspective with one short phrase.
It was a privilege to have met Tony Yates and an honor to get to know him. He will be forever remembered and respected by many people. His knowledge and outstanding wisdom will be carried on by his family and acquaintances.