Des Plaines mourns loss of longtime parks leader Bill Yates

You'd be hard pressed to find a facet of life in the Des Plaines area Bill Yates didn't impact in a positive way.

From park district commissioner to Boy Scout leader to public safety officer in Rosemont, Yates' influence was felt far and wide.

Which is why many in the community are mourning this week following the March 5 death of the 69-year-old Des Plaines resident.

"Bill's influence on the growth and success of the district over the past 20 years is immeasurable, and can be seen every day in the beauty of the parks and in how well all facilities serve the needs of the community he loved," the Des Plaines Park District said Tuesday in a statement on Yates' passing.

"Bill was a quiet, steadfast advocate for the park district's mission, and always an outspoken supporter of the administration and staff."

Yates served nearly 22 years on the park district's board of commissioners, including as its treasurer, vice president and president. In that time, he helped guide the development of North Lake Park, construction of a new Chippewa Pool, and the renovation and expansion of more than two dozen neighborhood parks, officials said.

He also was instrumental in acquiring the once-vacant property that is now Centennial Park, and was an integral part of the planning, design, construction, and opening of the Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center, according to the district.

"We are all better for having known and worked with Bill," park district Executive Director Don Miletic said. "His influence has helped shape the park district, and for that the community will be forever grateful."

Yates also was described as an avid Harley-Davidson motorcyclist, and proud member of the Blue Knights and Top Cats motorcycle clubs.

Memorial services have been held, but donations in Yates' memory can be made to either St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 200 S. Wille St., Mount Prospect, IL 60056, or to the Liponi Foundation, 6820 W. Dempster St., Morton Grove, IL 60053.