Claude Coates

Claude W. "Kip" Coates, age 80, a resident of Southfield, passed away October 30, 2013 at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak. He was born July 20, 1933 in Sault Ste. Marie to the late Claude and Louise Coates. Kip graduated from the University of Michigan and was a member of the Theta Delta Chi Chapter of Ann Arbor. He then attended Michigan State University for his graduate studies. Mr. Coates spent his professional career at Vilican Leman & Assoc. serving many southeast Michigan communities, including Farmington Hills. He was a former president and active member of the Michigan Society of Planning Officials. He also enjoyed spending his summers in Les Cheneaux. Most of all, Kip loved spending time with his family and was adored by both his children and grandchildren. Beloved husband of Joann. Loving father of Gary Nancy and Steven J. Andrea. Dear brother of Carolyn Coates. Proud grandfather of Courtney, Alex, Catherine, Nicole and Matthew. The visitation will be Saturday, November 9, 2013 from 3-6 p.m. at the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home, 705 W 11 Mile Rd. 4 blocks E of Woodward, Royal Oak. Mr. Coates will lie in state Sunday, November 10, 2013 from 1:30 p.m. until the time of service 2 p.m. at the Northwest Unitarian Universalist Church, 23925 Northwestern Hwy., Southfield. Donations may be made to the Chippewa County Historical Society, P.O. Box 342, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 or Les Cheneaux Water Shed Council, P.O. Box 578, Cedarville, MI 49719. Share your memories at www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com.