Photo courtesy of HILDEBRAND - RUSS FUNERAL HOME - Rhinelander
Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Apr 4, 1956 – Oct 29, 2021 (Age 65)
Kevin R. Yeager
1956 ~ 2021
Age ~ 65
Kevin Yeager passed away peacefully at his home in Harshaw, Wisconsin on October 29, 2021 after a long illness.
Kevin was born on April 4, 1956 in Lisbon, North Dakota. He graduated from Lisbon High School and earned his BS in Physical Education from Valley City State College in Valley City, North Dakota. Kevin played college basketball for four years and was a member of two conference championship teams. He had an exceptional senior season, winning All-Conference and league MVP honors. In 2018, he was inducted into the Valley City State University Basketball Hall of Fame.
Kevin taught Physical Education and Drivers Education for several years in Drayton, North Dakota and carried his love for basketball into coaching both boys and girls to state tournament wins.
In 1985, Kevin married Melody McDonald and the couple enjoyed 36 years together.
In 1989, they moved to Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Kevin worked at Horizons Unlimited and, later, Headwaters, Inc. and Bethesda Lutheran Homes. He coached Special Olympics for many years and earned several volunteer awards.
Most recently, Kevin managed the Habitat for Humanity ReStore from which he retired in June 2020.
Kevin loved his gardens and all the animals on the hobby farm he created, especially his beloved goldendoodle Toby.
Kevin is survived by his wife; Melody, aunt; Maxine Griej of Holland, Michigan and special friend; Pastor Gerald Check of Harshaw, Wisconsin. Kevin is also survived by his in-laws; Jack and Yvonne McDonald, Jay and Carol McDonald, Amy and Clayton Wagamon, and great niece and nephew, Lainey and Callan.
He was preceded in death by his parents; Grace and Raymond Yeager, sister; Vicki Yeager, and uncle; Eldon Griej.
Special thanks to Compassus Hospice, especially John and April.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
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Melody I´m so sorry we lost touch-life got in the way. I am ever so sorry for your loss.I have fond memories of meeting your Kevin and our travels about the state. You remain gentle on my mind and in my heart. Sending comfort..
SueAnne
April 27, 2023 | Friend
I grew up near Eilliott, North Dakota where the Yeager Farmily lived and knew the parents and his sister very well. I lost track of Kevin after his high school basketball days. I am sorry to hear of all family members passing.
Paulette Hansen
August 23, 2022 | Gunnison, CO | Friend
I enjoyed my time with Kevin in college. We were TKE brothers and we had mutual friends from Lisbon. Many good memories. Wish we had stayed in better contact. He was a good man.
Greg Gerntholz
March 31, 2022 | Sanborn, ND | Classmate
Melody, so sorry for your loss. Kevin and I were frat buddy’s at Valley City State. I hadn’t seen nor talked to him for eons (my fault). Such a nice guy! I am angry at myself for not staying in touch. I was very proud of being a groomsman at your wedding way back when! Take care Melody . Yours in the bond Kevin.
Gregg Christensen
January 08, 2022 | Ottertail, MN | Friend
Melody- I am so sorry for your loss. News of Kevin's passing just made it my way today. I was fortunate to have worked with him when he was a job developer. Not only did he have a great deal of compassion for the folks we worked with, but he also took the time to just slow down and get to know those around him. I miss his sense of humor and stories about his past. He was loved by all in our office at DVR. May you find moments of peace as you grieve.
Natalia Graf
December 08, 2021 | Rhinelander, WI | Coworker
Melody, I am sorry to hear about the loss of Kevin. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to work with Kevin for many years at Horizons Unlimited. He was so thoughtful and generous with his time and talents in meeting the needs of the developmentally disabled. I also enjoyed his competitive nature when playing summer volleyball.
I will keep Kevin and you in my prayers.
John Sykes
November 18, 2021 | Rhinelander, WI | Coworker
So sorry for your loss Melody. Kevin was a great friend and team-mate. While at Valley, we shared thoughts often and laughed a lot. I will always remember our years on campus with a smile. It was so nice to visit with you and Kevin at Valley in 2018 after so many years apart. Best to you moving forward.
Bill Luettgerodt
November 15, 2021 | Lake Oswego, OR | Friend
I’m so sorry for your loss Melody. Kevin lived a wonderful life of love and service that touched many people. His impact will continue for many, many years.
Holly Miller
November 11, 2021 | Friend
Hi Melody, I am so sorry about Kevin's passing. As you know I worked with Kevin for many years. He was a great advocate for the individuals and provided extra supports to enhance their life. When Kevin was around you always knew there would be interesting conversation. Take care. Mo
November 09, 2021
