John Lee Yates

Loving father and grandfather John Lee Yates, 86, passed away Tuesday, February 11, 2014, at his home in Overland Park.

John was born November 26, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Clarence Yates and Marie Middleton and was the oldest of three brothers. He graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended Washington University, both in St. Louis. John had a distinguished career in broadcasting that spanned nearly three decades. He began working in radio in St. Louis while still in high school and went on to write, produce and announce radio programs for the military where he held the rank of Staff Sargent during the Korean War. John began in television at KQTV Channel 2 in St. Joseph, Mo., but is best known for his longstanding role as weather anchor for KCTV Channel 5 from 1958 to 1981. John had a sharp scientific mind with a special interest in meteorology, astronomy and physics, and was a longtime audiophile who shared his enthusiasm and love of music with family and friends.

He is survived by children Jan L. Soptic and Jill M. Bagby; son-in-law Michael J. Soptic; and grandchildren Joe and Jeff Soptic and Sam Bagby.

John's family is grateful to the staffs of Cypress Springs and Vitas Hospice for their care and compassion.

Visitation will be from 3:00-4:00 p.m., Sunday, February 16, 2014, with a memorial service immediately following at 4:00 p.m. at Amos Family Funeral Home and Crematory.