Roy "Lee" Yates

Feb 16, 1961 -

Jan 10, 2026

Roy "Lee" Yates passed away peacefully at his home in Big Lake, Alaska, on Jan. 10, 2026. Lee was born on Feb. 16, 1961, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Lee attended elementary schools in Bonners Ferry and Troy, Idaho, until moving with his parents to Tucson, Ariz. Lee finished his education in Tucson as outstanding athlete in football and track.

After graduation, Lee moved to Alaska, where he worked throughout the state in the construction trade, including work at a number of remote Indian villages until becoming a lineman. As a lineman, Lee continued to work at various locations in Alaska until he settled into his home in Big Lake.

Lee was an avid hunter and fisherman who had a big heart and would help out anyone in need. Lee was a man of many talents including cooking. His pizza making skills were famous among his nieces and nephews who would look forward to "Lee's pizza night."

Lee is survived by his mother and father, Viola and Marvin Foust; two brothers, Lucas Foust and Matthew Foust; daughter, Shannon (Daniel Larrabee); grandson, Jackson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lee was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Yates; and brothers, Rex Yates and Gene Yates.

A celebration of life will be held in Bonners Ferry in early summer 2026.