David E. Coates
OCTOBER 23, 1946 – FEBRUARY 15, 2017
A devoted father, grandfather, coach, businessman and community advocate.
His Life
David E. Coates, 70, passed peacefully on February 15, 2017. David was born October 23rd, 1946 to Charles Dale Coates and Mable Laverne Coates in White Hall, IL. He was a long time resident of Durango where he raised his children and established himself as one of the top real estate agents in the area. David is survived by his children Shannon Coates-Layne and Tyler Coates, and his grandchildren Tristan Coates, Ava Layne and Jaxon Layne.
The lifelong lessons he taught to our youth were far more important and will remain as a lasting part of his legacy.
His Later Years
He spent the last years of his life working out at the sports club in the morning and waving to neighbors from his porch in the afternoon.
Youth Athletics
He played a very prominent role in youth athletics. He started the 7-8 year old baseball league in Durango and a year later led his team to the State Championship.
A Passionate Coach
He was extremely passionate about coaching his son in baseball as well as basketball. Much success was enjoyed during that time and he always emphasized the importance of winning and more importantly, lifelong lessons that will remain as part of his legacy.
Supporting Veterans
After retiring, he became well known for the work that he did helping to raise money for disabled veterans. Due to his fundraising the VA was able to buy multiple vehicles to transport veterans to the hospital in Albuquerque.