Sylvester John "Jack" Yogerst

1938 - 2025

Sylvester John "Jack" Yogerst, 87, passed peacefully at his home on the family farm on November 6, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family, and is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Jack was born on May 28, 1938, in New London, Wisconsin to the late Sylvester and Theresa (Kraus) Yogerst. He was a proud member of the Hortonville Union High School graduating class of 1956 and cherished the friendships he made there, continuing to organize and attend class reunions even as recently as this year. During his time in school, he was active in FFA and participated in State competitions. After graduation he attended Wisconsin State College in Menasha.

Jack began working at the Greenville Feed Mill, where his strong work ethic and steady character did not go unnoticed. He was soon offered an apprenticeship under local electrician Erv Reimer, which led to Jack earning his journeyman electrician license. In 1972, upon Mr. Reimer's retirement, Jack purchased the business and established Jack's Electric, where he faithfully served his community as owner and operator for over 50 years.

When he married Jeanette Koehnke Houle on October 17,1963, he not only gave his heart to her but also embraced her young children as his own. Their family grew when they later welcomed a child together. With strength and devotion, he guided them through farm life, cattle shows, chores, early mornings and honest work. In doing so he helped shape their character, giving them the foundation for qualities they have carried throughout their lives.

Jack was actively involved in his community throughout his life. Through the IBEW 577 (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), he held various leadership roles and supported fellow tradesmen. He was a member of the American and Wisconsin Hereford Associations, reflecting his lifelong connection to farming and cattle. Jack's commitment to youth development was especially evident in his long-time involvement with 4-H- first as a member in his own youth, and later as dedicated leader of the Beaver Valley 4-H Club when his own children were members. In the 1980s, Jack helped establish the Spring Valley Beef Show in Seymour, an event that continues to thrive today. In addition, Jack served his country honorably in the United States Army Reserves.

Jack worked throughout his life as both an electrician and a farmer, careers that reflected his strong hands, practical wisdom and deep connection to the land. He believed in working hard, caring for what you had, and always lending a hand when someone needed help. Whether tending the land he loved, fixing something with his electrician's skill, or simply enjoying a lively game of sheepshead around the kitchen table, Jack found joy in everyday moments. Jack was a devoted member of St. Bernard Catholic Church in Appleton where his Catholic faith guided his life.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Beth Yogerst (Jim Peterson, Sr.); step- children, Beverly (Bruce) Anunson, Deborah Houle (Gordon Skog), Jeff (Sue) Houle, Susan (Steve) Bylow, Kathy Houle and Donna (Wayne) Gilbertson; daughter-in-law, Susan Ross Houle; nine grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; a brother, Norm (Judy) Yogerst of Vancouver, Washington; and a sister, Joan Malone of Montana. He is also survived by several cherished nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanette; and their infant daughter, Theresa; his step-son, Steven Houle; his parents, Sylvester and Theresa Yogerst; his parents-in-law, Ralph and Agnes Koehnke; his brother and sister-in-law, Don (Carol) Yogerst; brother-in-law, Dennis Malone; and by many brothers-and sisters-in-law from the Koehnke family.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who touched Jack's life and provided him with care, especially the teams at ThedaCare Neenah, The Neuroscience Group and to the many physicians, nurses, and staff who supported him with kindness. A heartfelt thank you to his in-home therapists Gabby and Lori, who visited weekly to encourage, support and care for Jack during his time at home. A special thank you to Kathy from St. Bernard's Church whose compassion, prayers and spiritual love brought Jack great comfort.

Jack will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of the land and the unwavering care he gave to those he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, loyalty and love. He will be deeply missed and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 1617 W. Pine Street, Appleton. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment with military honors will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery 1815 East Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton at 2:30pm.


Fox Cities Funeral Home
3026 Jackson Street
Oshkosh, WI 54901
(920) 966-9000