Charles Reid Coates

Charles “Chuck” Reid Coates passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026. He was born on December 17, 1952, and was the beloved son of the late Ruth and Roy Coates of Weirton, West Virginia.

Chuck was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his children: Christopher Roy Coates of Reno, Nevada; Katie Coates DeWitt of Uniontown, Pennsylvania; and Brittany Gilmore of Alton, Illinois. He is also survived by their spouses—Morgan Coates, Delbert DeWitt, and Cameron Gilmore—and by his six cherished grandchildren: Addison Coates, Porter Coates, Wesley DeWitt, Easton DeWitt, Amelia Gilmore, and Oliver Gilmore.

He is further survived by his brother, Drew Coates of Weirton, West Virginia, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Chuck was a proud graduate of West Liberty College, Class of 1973, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education and was a member of the Lambda Chi fraternity. After college, he moved to Southern California, where he built both a career and a life rich in friendships. He married Patricia Wilken of Moon Township, Pennsylvania; though later divorced, they remained close friends and devoted co-parents to their children.

Chuck retired in 2015 after many years with Searing Industries in Rancho Cucamonga, California. His coworkers, customers, and friends became like family, a reflection of his genuine spirit and ability to connect deeply with others.

Known for his entertaining spirit, Chuck loved hosting gatherings, throwing memorable parties, and bringing people together. Music was always part of his life and his celebrations, adding to the joy and warmth he shared with those around him. An outdoorsman at heart, he also loved hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He lived vibrantly and was well liked by all who knew him.

A believer in Jesus Christ, Chuck desired to have Christ as the guide of his life and had a sincere heart for leading others to faith, especially his children. He lived with humility and an understanding of the human struggle, trusting not in perfection, but in the grace of Jesus Christ.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family is respectfully seeking support through donations to help manage outstanding bills and expenses after the loss of their father. Donations can be made on SpotFund.com for “Chuck Coates”

Chuck trusted not in perfection, but in the grace of Jesus Christ, and that grace remains his family’s comfort and hope.