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John Raymond Yeager, 60, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Jan. 31, at his home in Powell. He was born on Dec. 6, 1963, in Harlan, Iowa, to John and Judy (Jorgensen) Yeager. Spending some of his childhood years in Eau Gallie (Melbourne), Florida, his family moved to Sheridan, Wyoming, in August of 1971. John attended Coffeen Elementary, Central Junior High School and Sheridan High School (’82). He later completed the diesel mechanics program at Sheridan College. He worked at the Ski Corp in Jackson, Wyoming, for many years and later as a company representative for Caterpillar for Northeast Wyoming. He later opened his own business, Basin Equipment Repair, retiring recently due to health issues.
He won many prizes for his archery skills and was an avid bow hunter. He hunted caribou in Alaska, antelope, as well as mule deer and elk with his dad at Bucking Mule in the Bighorns. He also enjoyed marlin fishing in Cabo. He flew a powered parachute and was also an exceptional skier.
During his younger years, John provided a great deal of entertainment and laughter for his family. They will never forget his best one-liners, such as “healthy cereal isn’t really healthy for you if you don’t eat it,” “an F (on his report card) really isn’t that bad.” When asked by his mom if he was eating her candy bar, he replied, “No, this is mine, I already ate yours.” He was also the best big brother to play with, even if playing with him meant you might end up trapped under a barbell, having injuries washed out with a garden hose (while being warned “don’t tell Mom!”), having your doll’s head shaved or being forced to sign a “secret document” guaranteeing major punishment if you bothered him.
He leaves behind his parents in Sheridan, as well as four sisters, Tary (Glenn) Medberry, Rochester, Minnesota; Dr. Catherine Yeager, Grand Forks, North Dakota; Susan (Brian) Battles of Grand Forks, North Dakota; and Sherry Godfrey, of Elma, Washington. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and companion Mary Lou Oschman. He also leaves behind his much loved beagles, Ruby and Pearl, who may never stop looking out the window, waiting for him to return. He is now reunited with his much loved beagle, Mollie.
Friends of John’s and those of the Yeager family are invited to a memorial service and visitation, which will take place at Kane Funeral Home in Sheridan, Wyoming, on Friday, Feb. 9, 9:30 a.m. with a coffee reception to follow. Casual dress is preferred, including camouflage. We think John would like that.
No flowers please. If you’d like to make a donation in his memory to the animal shelters in either Sheridan or Powell, that would be much appreciated.
