Melvin Yates Jr.

Melvin "Mel" Edward Yates Jr., 67, of Huntersville, went to heaven Tuesday, April 22, 2014. He died peacefully at home with hospice care surrounded by his loving wife and two dogs (Salem and Wesley). Mel was born in Greensboro, NC, to the late Melvin and Dorothy Yates. He graduated from Ragsdale High School, and later received his Bachelor's Degree from CPCI. He served in the United States Coast Guard from 1965-69. He was a third generation serviceman. Mel worked with SunGard Trust Systems for 30 year achieving the position of Vice President. He is survived by wife/soul mate, Elaine Falkenberry-Yates; beloved mother-in-law, Blanche A Falkenberry (the late JW Falkenberry); step children, Heather and Alex Triplette; sons, Chris (Jennifer) and Scott (Susan) Yates; three granddaughters; a sister, Sarah Martha Hamm; niece Stephanie (Brad) Kiser; and great nephew, Jackson Kiser. Mel was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend. He loved the beach and his favorite place to spend time was Harbor Island, SC. He attended St Mark's Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The John A and Carrie D Allen Memorial Fund of Pilot View UMC, c/o 1619 Shoals Rd, Pinnacle, NC, 27043, or Hospice & Palliative Care Lake Norman Office, 705 Griffith St, Suite 203, Davidson, NC, 28036. A memorial service to honor Mel's life will be held Saturday, April 26, 1 pm, at Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home Chapel, 16901 Old Statesville Rd, Huntersville. The service will be officiated by the Reverend Carolyn H Burrus. Visitation and reception immediately following the service.