George Merlin Yonkers

George Merlin Yonkers

May 9, 1921 - Nov. 6, 2011

McCOOK, Nebraska --George Merlin Yonkers passed away Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011, at his home in McCook. He was 90 years old.

George was born in Hayes County, Nebraska to Anthony Benjamin and Lucy D. (Brownell) Yonkers on May 9, 1921. He graduated from Hayes Center High School in 1940.

On Sept.2, 1942, he entered the US Army Air Force at Fort Crook, Nebraska and served during World War II. He was honorably discharged on Feb. 6, 1946, at Fort Logan, Colorado.

George was united in marriage to Betty Jussel Ellis on Dec. 20, 1969, at Hayes Center. They made their home on a farm near Hayes Center where they raised their three sons. After George retired, they moved to Trenton and later in 2007, they moved to McCook.

George was a member of the American Legion Post No. 0337 and Veteran's of Foreign Wars Post No. 10561. He loved his Bible and had committed his life to Christ. He was an avid sports enthusiast having played football, baseball, golf and bowling.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Anthony and Lucy Yonkers; and three sisters, Maxine Nichols, Ceone Farmer and Joan Housman.

Survivors include his wife of almost 42 years, Betty Yonkers of McCook; three sons, Rick Yonkers of North Platte, Mark Yonkers and wife, Keeli, of Bridgeport and Bob Yonkers of Trenton; six grandchildren, Levi and Rachel Yonkers of North Platte, Andrew Yonkers and wife, Jaclyn of Surprise, Arizona, Marylee and husband Tyler Stuart of Bayard, Samantha and Alex Yonkers of McCook; one great-granddaughter, Hayden Stuart; two brothers, Darwin Yonkers and wife, Shirley, and Carl Yonkers and wife, Muriel, all of Maywood; two sisters, Marlene Jorgensen of Gothenburg and Lois Huntwork of Lincoln; numerous nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Visitation will be Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011, from 1-8 p.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home in McCook. The family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m.

Funeral services will be Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011, 10:30 a.m. at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home in McCook. Burial will follow at the Hayes Center Cemetery with military honors.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements. Friends may go online at www.carpenterbreland.comwww.carpenterbreland.com to extend condolences.