June 25, 2023
In loving memory ~
Leslie Newton Yates, 73, passed away Sunday, June 25, peacefully at home in Quick, B.C. He was surrounded by his Wife Chris, daughter Charlotte and son Ian. Les was diagnosed in April with glioblastoma, brain cancer.
Les was born in Stratford, Ontario and spent most of his childhood in Toronto.
Les and Chris met as reporters on Vancouver Island and were married in 1979 in Prince Rupert where they lived for almost 20 years. Les was an entrepreneurial spirit either starting businesses or improving those he worked in. In 1991 he founded Prince Rupert This Week and later took over as publisher of both the daily and weekly papers after selling the weekly.
In 1998 the family moved to the Quick area outside of Smithers where Les took on the management of BV Home Centre for the next 15 Years. The family settled on a half section of land and created the Lemieux Creek Ranch where Chris and Les sell grass-fed beef to customers all over B.C. Les loved working with the land and the cows.
Les' final days were made easier by the incredible support of our neighbours, friends and health professionals who made it possible for him to live out his final days at home.
Les is survived by Chris, his wife of 43 years, daughter Charlotte with her husband Dean and 3 daughters: Autumn 12; Gwyneth 12; and Robyn 8; Son Ian with his wife Elvi and daughters Rosie 9 and Nora 7; his brother Jim and his wife Debra, their daughter Jamie, her husband Mike and their daughters Ryenne and Blaire; Sister Rae and many cousins. He is predeceased by his son Colin.
A Memorial will be held on Saturday, July 15, at the Telkwa Community Church at 1:30 p.m. followed by a reception at the Yates' farm.
Condolences may be offered at
www.schraderfuneralhome.ca