Kenneth Floyd Yates, Jr.

Kenneth Floyd Yates, a devoted father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on January 9, 2026. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, Kenneth was the son of Kenneth Floyd Yates and Lorena Sturgill Yates. He grew up with four brothers, three of whom—Robert, Donald, and Alex—preceded him in death. His only surviving brother, Jefferey Yates, resides in Evansville, Indiana.
Kenneth’s family was his greatest joy. He married Joann Kay Yates in 1980 and embraced her two children, Michael Alan Harder and Dawn Marie (Mark) Helsel, as his own. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Nichole Harder of Germany, Benjamin Schultz, Isaac Schultz, Logan Garrett, Morgan (Keegan) Redloske, and Katelyn Helsel, as well as great-granddaughter Hadley Redloske. Kenneth cherished his “one on one” outings with each grandchild, allowing them to choose their adventures—whether it was visiting the Air Zoo in Battle Creek, enjoying rides in his Corvette, exploring the submarine exhibit in Muskegon, or spending peaceful days fishing on the river.
Kenneth served honorably in the U.S. Navy for three years, where he was stationed on a submarine, an experience that shaped his character and instilled a sense of discipline and adventure in him. After his military service, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University and went on to work for the federal government. He dedicated himself to his career until 2003, when he made the selfless decision to retire to care for his beloved wife, Joann, during her battle with cancer.
In the wake of Joann’s passing in 2004, Kenneth founded the Barry County Cancer Support Group, providing support and compassion for those facing similar battles. He was known for his generosity and kindness, always willing to lend a helping hand and eager to get to know others.
Kenneth enjoyed dining out, dancing with Joann, and surrounding himself with friends and family. His warmth and generosity touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A passionate educator, Kenneth taught computer classes at Kent Skills Center one night a week for many years, sharing his knowledge and skills with others. His love for aviation was unmatched; he owned Cessna airplanes and enjoyed taking his stepdaughter on flights, as well as whisking Joann away on vacations to Mackinaw Island, where he piloted their adventures.
Kenneth was also a talented woodworker, creating beautiful mailboxes for his loved ones that showcased his craftsmanship. Music was a significant part of his life; he played the harmonica for children in stores and businesses, brightening their days, and shared his love of music by playing guitar and banjo at assisted care facilities to lift the spirits of residents. 
A funeral service will be held at 11 am, Saturday, January 17 at Whitneyville Bible Church, 8655 Whitneyville Ave SE, Alto, with Rev. Jonathan L. DeCou officiating. Kent County Honor Guard will follow with military honors. Burial will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday, January 16 from 4-6 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E Main Street SE, Caledonia. An additional visitation will take place Saturday, one hour prior to the service at the church. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Kenneth’s life and share stories that honor his remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Barry County Cancer Support Group.