Thomas “Keith” Coates, who was 87 years old, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Warren, Michigan. He was born on July 2, 1938, in Exeter, Ontario, to Whitney and Viola (Hodgert) Coates. Keith spent his childhood in Exeter and Usborne Township. After finishing Grade 10, he went to Ridgetown College of Agriculture Technology before returning home to work on the family farm. There he and his father raised Purebred Hereford cattle and Standardbred racehorses, which showed his strong bond with farming and caring for animals.
During his working life, Keith was involved in sales at Mc Kinley Hatchery in Zurich, Ontario. Later on, he worked with the Canadian Hereford Association. His knowledge as a cattleman led him to respected positions as a judge at significant events like Argibition, the Royal Winter Fair, Canadian National Exhibition, and Western Fair across Ontario. His expertise even took him overseas as a consultant to Argentina. Outside of work achievements, Keith loved training and caring for horses. His friendly nature and extensive travels helped him make many friends easily.
Keith was preceded in death by his parents; sister Shirley (Richard) Doherty; brother-in-law Wally Smolanski; and wife Mary Jo (Jody) Coates. He is survived by his sister Wilma Smolanski; children Brad (Cindy) Coates, Tom (Jill) Coates, and Sue (Tom) Passmore; along with grandchildren Jaylene (Matt) Butler, Delaney Coates, Cecily Coates, Tommy (Ally) Coates; Brock and Bria Passmore. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Collins and Tripp Whitney Coates along with Clark Butler. Additionally surviving are his step-daughter Brenda; her husband Jeremy Colvin; their sons Charlie and Will; plus “his third son” Don Massenhoven who has been part of the family for around 40 years.
A huge hockey fan throughout his life, Keith enjoyed discussing games with many people but especially with his lifelong best friend Bill Pincombe. In later years while living in a residential community he worked part-time as a gatekeeper where he greeted visitors warmly. During this time he developed meaningful friendships including ones with John Tocco and Steve Morroso whose company he truly valued.
After cremation takes place Keith will be laid to rest at Exeter Public Cemetery in Ontario. A celebration of his life will occur this summer in Exeter for family members and close friends only. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Exeter Legion Branch 167 or the Exeter Lions Club in Exeter which support causes that were important to him.
Keith Coates will be fondly remembered for his kindness towards others as well as for his love of agriculture along with all the friendships he built throughout his journey.
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