Gailen L. Coates age 95, of Mitchell died Friday, July 7, 2017 at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital. Visitation will be from 6-8 PM Tuesday, July 11, at the Will Funeral Chapel in Mitchell. Funeral services will be 11 AM Wednesday, July 12, at the Will Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery with military rites.

Gailen was born in Platte, SD on September 20, 1921 to Leonard and Kitty (Green) Coates. Schooled and graduated from Platte High School in 1939.

He married Gelene Johnson on January 23, 1943 in Kansas City, MO. and made their home in Mitchell.

Gailen served in the Army Air Corp in the states and the European Theater from September 1942 to November 1945. After returning home he worked as an electrician in Mitchell until 1958. Gailen then established Coates Electric service in 1958 and sold the company in 1986 and retired.

Gailen was a life member of Elks Lodge 1059, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and First Lutheran Church.

Grateful for sharing his life are several nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Donna (Gene) Farris of Mitchell, SD, Charollene Coates of Rapid City, SD and Lila Thorp of Sioux City, IA.

Proceeded  in death by his parents; Gelene in August 19, 2012 and brother Keith Coates.