Oscar Ybarra

Oscar D Ybarra, 75, of Galva, KS left his earthly body on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. He was born, the eldest of 7 children on December 27, 1949, in Hondo, TX to Alfredo Ybarra and Martina (Lia) Ybarra. He graduated from South San Antonio HS in 1968 and enlisted in the United States Airforce, following in his father's footsteps. Oscar served in the United States Airforce (USAF) for 4 years from 1968 – 1972 both overseas and in the US. During this time, he served in Korea while the Vietnam war was ongoing. His job as a Vehicle Operator / Dispatcher was to supply the satellite stations with 50-gallon barrels that would run the lights / heating systems, deliver food / necessities, and transport troops in convoys in the mountains and villages. Oscar was proud of his role as he was a true believer in stopping the spread of communism. During his service time, he earned the following medals: Good Conduct Award (3 years good conduct); Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Deployment); and The National Defense Service Medal (Serving at time of war). He was Honorably Discharged, leaving the Air Force as a Sergeant. Oscar was later selected for his Honor Flight to Washington DC in 2018 where he proudly participated as a guard for the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier."
While stationed at McConnell Airforce Base, he met and married Rose Alvarez of Lost Springs, KS, and had two children, Madio and Tina Ybarra. They settled in Lost Springs, KS, where he enjoyed the quiet peaceful town atmosphere. He loved listening to the sounds of the oil fields or trains heard from his porch.
Oscar began working, alongside his brother-in-law Nick Alvarez, for Santa Fe Railroad. Working as a Trackman/Truckdriver, he retired after 37 years from the Burlington Northern Santa Fe in 2010, though he did not stay retired for long. He enjoyed a return to his driving skills and shared the title with his wife of the "Transportation Officers" for their grandchildren in both KS and TX. Together they delivered them safely to school and all events, providing the caretaker roles to help with the burden of working parents, as they had always been. Oscar would often suggest a trip to Braums on the way home, in case the "kids" needed ice-cream.
A man of many hobbies, Oscar was never idle. In his younger years he took pride in working on cars with his family, which later translated to teaching these skills to his children and grandchildren. He was the ultimate "fixer." He found great joy in giving, and could often be found at any garage sale looking for something he needed to fix or just give to someone who might need that particular item. He was the best "make a fair deal" man. He prioritized calling his railroad friends and attending breakfast meetings while also attending military reunions as a member of the MuleSkinner convoy unit. He loved telling stories, being extremely punctual, and napping with their little dog Zoey. Oscar was a proud, giving man that sacrificed his entire life for the well-being of those around him. His grandchildren proudly exclaim him as "Papa, their hero." He was a loyal father, a giver of happiness, and his kindness will be missed every minute of every day.
Oscar is preceded in death by his father Alfredo Ybarra and 1 sibling Alfredo Ybarra Jr. Survivors include his wife Rose Ybarra, children: Madio Ybarra of TX and 3 grandchildren Logan, Mercedes, Dannika Ybarra; and Tina R (Ybarra) Roche (husband Joe Roche) of Salina and 3 grandchildren, Gabriel, Julian, and Eva Roche; his mother Martina (Lia) Ybarra, TX; 6 siblings: James Ybarra (wife Delores), David Ybarra (wife Beverly), Dora Ximenez (husband Joe), Ruby Martinez (husband Gilbert) and Ruth Riojas (husband Tim). Alvarez Siblings: Nick Alvarez (wife Debbie), Rick Alvarez (wife Jessica), Robert Alvarez (wife Shari), Rita Gehrke (husband Dave), Mona Slothhower (husband Larry), and Rachel Krier (husband Ken) and many, many additional loving relatives.
All services will be held at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Abilene KS.
Visitation will be available on Tuesday, May 6 from 5-7pm, with Rosary at 6pm.
Full Catholic Funeral Mass will begin Wednesday, May 7 at 11am.
Military Honors Burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
The family invites you to attend lunch after the burial at the Parrish Hall.
Memorials may be made to the family in care of Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home.