Basil Willard Coates, 87, of Joplin, Mo., passed away Saturday, March 12, 2016.

Basil was born on February 11, 1929, to Frederick and Iva Coates of Sarcoxie, Mo. He worked at Rocket Dyne in Neosho, Mo., and retired from F.A.G. Bearing in Joplin, Mo., as a machinist.

One of his most valued accomplishments was becoming a master machinist and a master of his craft. His other accomplishment was his family and he worked hard to provide for them. He was a true family man.

He was also devoted to long time companion, Eunice Hill, of Joplin. Other survivors include daughter, Janet Coates, Winnsboro, Texas; sons, Willard Coates, Lafayette, Ind., Dwaine Coates, Huntsville, Ala., and Steven Coates, Aurora, Mo.; seven grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Memorial services for Mr. Coates are 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 14, 2016 at Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home, Sarcoxie, MO with Pastor Don Sullivan officiating. Burial to follow in Sarcoxie Cemetery. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home, Sarcoxie, MO.