Curtis Dale Yates

Curtis Dale Yates, born on November 21, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on April 29, 2025, in Polo, Missouri. He was 67 years of age.

A proud graduate of Ruskin High School, Curtis entered the United States Air Force, where he served honorably for 10 years as a security specialist. He took great pride in his service, spending time stationed in various locations across the United States and abroad, including Italy. His resilience and commitment to duty exemplified his character throughout his life. For over 36 years, Curtis made a significant mark in his career as a truck driver. He navigated countless miles, driving for numerous companies and taking in the sights and sounds of many corners of the country. He often cherished the moments spent on the road, allowing his nephew, Ernie, to accompany him on journeys that fostered a deep bond between them.

An outdoor enthusiast, Curtis found joy in fishing, hunting, and camping, especially when shared with family and friends. His adventurous spirit led him to attend drag races, boat shows, and RV shows, where he relished the thrill of the experience. Those close to him admired not only his passions but also his unwavering love for his family and friends. Curtis's personality was complex; he was often seen as hard-headed yet had an abundance of love for those close to him, although he didn't always show it. His relationships, particularly with his nephews, held a special place in his heart. One of his proudest accomplishments was being baptized alongside them, symbolizing the strong familial ties he cherished. Roughly fifteen years ago, Curtis met the love of his life, Mary. Their story was one of devotion, as he crossed oceans to be with her, traveling to Hong Kong and the Philippines to meet her family. Their love blossomed, leading to a beautiful marriage on September 18, 2010. Mary became the center of his world, and he cherished her with all his heart.

Curtis' passing was preceded by his parents, Ernest and Judith Yates; his son, Curtis Yates Jr.; his sister, Becky Barrera and her husband, John Barrera Jr.; and his father-in-law, Antonio Padura Sr. His legacy lives on through his best friend and love of his life, Mary Yates; his children, Samantha Yates (Tim), Miracle Yates (Patrick), and Steven Padura (Rose-Ann); his sister, Cindy Inlow (Robert), his nieces and nephews, J.T. Barrera III (Allie), Selena Barrera, Ernest Barrera, David Inlow III (Whitney), and Bobby Barrera; as well as eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on May 8, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Speaks Suburban Chapel, located at 18020 East 39th St S, Independence, MO 64055. The funeral service will take place the following day, May 9, 2025, starting at 8:00 AM, also at Speaks Suburban Chapel. Curtis will be laid to rest with a graveside service at Leavenworth National Cemetery, 150 Muncie Rd, Leavenworth, KS 66048, at 10:00 AM on the same day.