Devon J. Yates

Devon Jacob Yates, 26, died suddenly Thursday, August 31, 2023, in Roswell, New Mexico. He was born in Rockford, IL on May 6, 1997. He was the son of Douglas J. Yates and Leah K. (Rowe) Yates. He was a graduate of Harlem High School and went on to attend Rock Valley College and Eastern New Mexico University. He was a lifeguard for 4 years and taught swimming lessons for the Rockford Park District. He loved the outdoors, playing football, paintball and airsoft. He was an avid Xbox gamer and engineered his own gaming system. He also enjoyed anime, books, and music. He was loved beyond measure and his family is devastated by his loss.

Devon is survived by his son, Dominic Jacob Bugarin-Yates, who will be 2 years old on September 13, 2023. Devon loved being a father more than anything in this world and he was so proud of his sweet baby boy.

Devon is also survived by his parents, Douglas and Leah Yates; sister, Grace Yates; grandparents, Richard and Theodora Yates, and Richard and Wendy Borowski; uncles, Brent and Kevin Rowe, Jeff Yates, Greg Yates, Steve Yates, and Kevin Yates; aunt, Hope Yates; numerous cousins.

Devon is predeceased by his uncle, Army SPC, Brandon J. Rowe, who was killed in action in 2003, Al Hillah, Iraq.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, from 5:00 PM until 7:30 PM in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory-Mulford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. A time of sharing will begin at 7:15 PM. Guests are encouraged to wear a Hawaiian flower themed shirt as Devon loved his Hawaiian button ups. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Devon’s son, Dominic Yates.

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