As written by his sister, Diana Stieg

Raymond [Bumps] Yates was born in Miles City; the son of Korliss and Lillian Yates. He was educated in Miles City grade schools and at Custer County High School. On December 7, 1950, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was in combat in Korea with the Third Battalion Weapons Company. He received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained while fighting. In May of 1952, he was discharged but he retained his service connection by joining the Reserve Marine Corps. Bumps returned to Miles City following his tour of duty and was employed by the Milwaukee Railroad.

My brother was always interested in sports. He was a member of the 1947 state champion Miles City American Legion baseball team. At the time of his death, he was the pitcher for the Kegler's Club softball team. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and had a great interest in archery.

He died on June 24, 1958, of head injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was driving alone and failed to negotiate a curve on US Highway 12 about three miles east of Miles City. My brother was found several feet from the car and it is believed that he was thrown from the car as it flipped end over end.

I do not believe my mother ever recovered from my brother's death. She said many times, "You expect to pick out a crib for your son; not a casket."

The white cross is gone now; it was removed when the interstate was built. I would like to see it up again.

June 1, 1931 -
June 24, 1958