Olen A. Yutzy

Olen Yutzy, 41, unexpectedly left us to be with the Lord on July 8, 2023. He leaves behind his beloved wife Areli, one-year-old daughter Hannah, and an unborn child expected in December 2023. He is also survived by his parents, Alvin and Naomi Yutzy of Huntsville, AR; six brothers and one sister: Jason (Julie) of Grove City, MN; Amos (Lori) of La Russell, MO; Rosemary (Doug Kauffman) of Harrison, AR; Gideon (Esther) of Dunmore East, Ireland; Daniel (Sheri) of North Lawrence, OH; Alvin Jr. (Rhoda) of Huntsville, AR; and Christopher (Euni) of Fayetteville, AR; his father and mother-in law, Daniel and Patty Barajas, of Tlaxcala, Mexico; sisters & brothers-in-law, Erika Minter (Brian) of Leavenworth, KS; brothers-in-law, Dany Barajas (Gabriela) of Tlaxcala, Mexico, Tony Barajas (Kathy) Tlaxcala, Mexico and Ismael Barajas of the state of Washington; and as well as 27 nieces and nephews.
Olen was born November 5, 1981, at Keosauqua, Iowa. His life was full and interesting. He was always on the search – for the next adventure, for a better way of doing things, for a new perspective. He grew up in the Amish community at Bloomfield, Iowa; moved with his family to Missouri; taught school in California; and even lived and traveled extensively in South America. On August 8, 2021, he married Areli Barajas in Tlaxcala, Mexico, and they made many happy memories in their short time together. He was a doting husband and father. Areli and Hannah made his life richer and happier than ever before, and he was excited about meeting his second child later this year. He was devoted to his church family at the Church of Monett and was admired and loved deeply in return. He was also devoted to his family, and often made the two-hour trip to Arkansas to spend time with his parents and siblings.
Olen leaves a legacy of generosity and gentleness. His relationships and conversations were marked by deference to others and a love of peace. Even in his zeal for integrity and justice, he asked thoughtful questions and expressed his opinions carefully. He is deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, his church, and his community.
Visitation will be Tuesday, July 11, from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm at the Church of Monett, and the funeral service will be at the same location on Wednesday, July 12, at 10 am, with David Keeling officiating. Pallbearers will be Olen's six brothers, Jason Yutzy, Amos Yutzy, Gideon Yutzy, Daniel Yutzy, Alvin Yutzy, Jr. and Christopher Yutzy. Honorary pallbearers will be Brian Gray, Brian Minter, Floyd Graybill, Corban Ekstedt, Colby Hammen and J.D. Stewart. Interment will be held in the church cemetery. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.