DAVID LEE COATS, JR

David Lee Coats, Jr., 48, of Shawnee, KS and formerly of Blue Springs, MO had a brave strong heart, but on Sunday, April 17, 2011 it seized up and he died at the University of Kansas Hospital, Kansas City, KS.
David was born on December 6, 1962 in Richmond, MO to David Lee and Jessie L. (Lile) Coats, Sr.
Survivors include his father, Dave Coats of Eureka Springs, AR; two sisters, Denise Sanchez of Weston, MO and Jami Willard of Ft.Benning, GA; his companion, Serrina Castillo and many friends.
David was preceded in death by his mother, Jessie L. Coats.
David was a 1981 graduate from Blue Springs High School. He was a master stone mason for the J.E. Dunn Company. He was an avid and talented motorcycle racer from age 7. His professional racing career cut short by a serious injury in 1977, but his passion for racing never waned and he competed in Vintage racing until his death. He was of the Christian faith.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the David Lee Coats memorial fund that will benefit motorcycle racers at the La Monte Speedway on May 14, 2011.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 23, 2011 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Courtyard Marriott, 1400 NE Coronado Drive in Blue Springs, MO 64014. Inurnment will be at a later date in the New Hope Cemetery, north of Hardin, MO. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.