Darrel Shane Yates

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Darrel Shane Yates, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend. Darrel passed away on May 17, 2026, at the age of 59, after a courageous battle with stage 4 COPD. He was surrounded by the love of his family in Casper, Wyoming, the town where he was born (Greybull) on September 23, 1966, and where his remarkable journey began. Darrel was the cherished son of Marilyn Taylor and the late Jerry Yates. He was preceded in death by his father, his brother Toby Yates, and his best friend, Burl Ford. His legacy lives on through his devoted wife of 32 years, Tammy Yates, his daughters Stormy and Schay, and his daughter Tiffani from his previous marriage to Lonnie Ellis. He also leaves behind a stepson, Steven, who he loved as his own. Darrel was a proud graduate of Natrona County High School in 1984. His sense of duty and patriotism led him to serve in the United States Army from 1986 to 1988 and continued his service in the reserves until 1993. He spent time stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, where he honed his skills and created lifelong friendships. After his military service, Darrel returned to Wyoming and ventured into the oil field industry, becoming a driller in 2005—a role he embraced with immense pride, even adorning his Blazer with the personalized license plate "DRLR." In the later years of his career, Darrel found joy in construction, building metal roofs and crafting beautiful decks. His passion for nature and wildlife led him to become certified in nuisance animal control with the NWCOA. Darrel was a man of many talents and interests, a member of the Elks Club, and a gifted musician who enjoyed playing bass and drums in various bands throughout his life. He loved fishing, camping, and imparting his knowledge of cars and construction to his children, teaching them the value of hard work and perseverance. Darrel will be remembered for his quick wit, warm smile, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. He had the rare gift of lightening any mood with a well-timed joke, and his kindness and generosity touched countless lives. While he could be as fiery and dynamic as his favorite song, "TNT" by AC/DC, it was his gentle heart and unwavering support that truly defined him. A celebration of Darrel’s life will take place on June 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery, located at 80 Veterans Dr, Evansville, WY 82636. Family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by Darrel are invited to come together to honor and remember a man who brought so much joy and love into the world. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Darrel's name, to continue his legacy of kindness and support for others. Darrel Shane Yates will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in eternal peace.