David Alma Yahnig
March 3, 1932 – August 1, 2024
David Alma Yahnig, age 92, of Drexel, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 1, 2024. Born on March 3, 1932, in Thayer, Missouri, to Henry Max and Florence S. Yahnig (Hail), David led a life marked by dedication to education, service, and family.
David's early life was shaped by his baptism and confirmation in the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He attended schools in Thayer and Stewartsville, Missouri, and was a 1951 graduate of William Chrisman High School in Independence, Missouri. David continued his education at Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa, and earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education from CMSU in Warrensburg, Missouri.
David's career in education was distinguished and impactful on a large number of young adults. He served as a teacher and school counselor at William Chrisman High School, where he was honored as the Outstanding High School Counselor by the Air Force Academy in the Greater Kansas City area, presented to him by Lt. Col. John A Riffle of the 9718th Air Reserve Squadron. David also worked as a television repairman during this time. He later held various roles in school administration at Cass Midway School in Cleveland, Missouri. His career further included work as a college recruiter and instructor. After retiring from education, David continued another 25 years counseling and assisting youth in achieving their greatest potential.
David realized his childhood dream of owning a farm in the late 1950s when he purchased land in Cass County, Missouri. He enjoyed many years of farming with his childhood friend, Gwen Ratcliff and later with his two sons and grandsons. He was actively involved in community service through roles as a founding member of Public Water Supply District #7, and as a member of the Lions and Kiwanis clubs.
A proud veteran, David served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1952 to 1956 and continued in the reserves until 1960. He was recognized as Squadron Airman of the Month in 1954 for his exemplary service with the 56th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron.
David's love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting, which brought him joy and relaxation. He fondly remembered his teenage years spent in a remote village in Alaska, hunting, fishing, and exploring while living with his sister and brother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Evans, and their son, Dan. Some of David’s proudest moments were sharing his knowledge and passion for hunting and his skill as an outstanding marksman with his nephews, sons, grandchildren, and friends. He particularly looked forward to hosting his annual deer camp.
David is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Mary Lou Lesh; his children, Kim Yahnig, Tamara Lashley (Curtis), Jeff Yahnig (Susan), and Brent Yahnig (Kelli); his ten grandchildren, Tiffany Vogel, Mary Hensley, Tyler Yahnig (Kelsey), Courtney Vest (David), Tanner Yahnig, Megan East (Levi), Joshua Yahnig (Ryleigh), Madeline Yahnig, Mason Yahnig, and Hunter Yahnig; and his six great-grandchildren, Hailey White, Jacob Smith, Addison Vest, Vayda Yahnig, Parker East, and Ella Yahnig. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy Brockman, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. David was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Mary Yahnig, Frederick Yahnig, Paul Henry Yahnig, Luther Yahnig, Lillie Mae Sutton, Maxine Evans, Manon Wheeler, and Clara Halfhill VanBiber.
A celebration of David’s life will be held at Turner Family Funeral Home in Stewartsville, Missouri. Visitation will take place on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 10:00 am, followed by the memorial service at 11:00 am, with military honors. The service will be officiated by his nephews, Elder Gary Wheeler and Priest Dan Evans. Inurnment at Stewartsville Cemetery will occur at a later date.
Honorary pallbearers include Russell Sutton, Michael Green, Tyler Yahnig, Tanner Yahnig, Joshua Yahnig, Mason Yahnig, Hunter Yahnig, Jacob Smith, and Dan Miller.
Memorial contributions may be made to the WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT, KOREAN WAR PROJECT or a charity of your choice in memory of David.
Turner Family Funeral Home, located at 303 DeKalb Street, Stewartsville, Missouri, is assisting the family with arrangements. David’s life, marked by service, education, and love of family, will be deeply missed, and forever remembered by all who knew him.
