Richard W. Coates, 72, of New Castle, passed away November 22, 2015 at UPMC Passavant in Pittsburgh. Born November 26, 1942 in New Castle, he was the son of R. Wilbur and Mildred M. Belknap Coates. He was preceded in death on July 2, 2010 by his wife of 37 years, Annetta Lewis Coates. For 22 years Richard proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy and retired as a Senior Chief. During that time he received the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, among several other meritorious decorations and medals. Following his military retirement, he was a truck driver for over 25 years with J.B. Hunt Transport, August Transport, and other local contractors. An avid outdoorsman, Richard enjoyed fishing, hunting, boating and camping and was a member of the Holiday Camplands. He often made crafts and attended various craft shows. During his high school days he was a state gymnast. He held memberships in the Eagles Club, the Falcons Club, and the VFW Post 315. Richard is survived by 1 son, Michael Kifer of Boardman, OH; three step-sons, David Pearson and Ernie Verrill, both of New Castle, and Ray Verrill of Georgia; 2 step-daughters, Linda Farley of Pa., and Vicky Verrill of Brookfield, Ohio; 1 grandchild; 17 step-grandchildren; and 22 step-great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by one brother, James Coates. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 11:00-noon at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 2429 Wilmington Road. A memorial service will take place immediately following visitation at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. John Yergan officiating. Military rites will be performed by the New Castle Area Honor Guard. Burial will be in Castle View Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be offered at www.cunninghamfh.com