David Harrison Yeager, 74, a longtime Birdsview community resident, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, February 24, 2010.
He was born on September 7, 1935 in Concrete, the son of James & Stella (Paige) Yeager. He was raised and attended school in Concrete, graduating from Concrete High School with the class of 1954.
He was united in marriage to Betty Huscusson in 1957. In 1958 David was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving his country during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge he returned to Skagit County.
David’s marriage to Betty ultimately ended but during that union his sons, David Dewayne and Darrell were born. He later met his soul mate, Bonnie Hooper and together they have made their home in Birdsview for the past 25 years.
David worked as a sawyer for the Drake Saw Mill in Concrete for many years, then as a millwright for several mills around the county, making his home in Grassmere. In the mid 1970’s he began working for G & K Services, a telephone contracting company, as their heavy equipment mechanic maintaining their fleet. He retired in 1997.
David was an avid fisherman; he enjoyed working around his home and tending to his vegetable garden where each fall he would grow enormous pumpkins and he also enjoyed camping and spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren.
He is survived by his sons, David Dewayne Yeager and his wife, Sebrina of Big Rock and Darrell Yeager of Burlington. His longtime companion, Bonnie Hooper at the family home in Birdsview and their children, Demi Browning, Brandon Browning, Jamie Hooper, John Carter and Jennifer Carter. His grandchildren, Dylan, Derek and Devon Yeager. Two sisters, Adrienne Smith and Elaine Taylor, both of Concrete. Extended family, Kevin & Donna Browning, Chris Hooper, Gayle & Fred Sizemore along with many more. He was preceded in death by his parents; his father, James Yeager, his mother, Stella Yeager and his Dad, Alex Yeager. David’s father, James, died when Dave was a young boy and his mother later married his father’s brother, Alex. He was also preceded by an infant daughter, Debra Jean Yeager and a brother, Gene Yeager.
A Graveside Inurnment Service will be held on Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 4:00 Pm at the Sedro-Woolley Union Cemetery with a Life Celebration Gathering immedately following at the home of Agnes Stransky in Sedro-Woolley.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.
To Dewayne and Darrell ..I am so sorry for the loss of your dad my Thoughts are with you both..
I can remember as a child visiting his grandfathers place with my father and grandfather. David and his family were friends with my family for years. David and I went to school together at Concrete and graduated together. I haven’t seen him since then, but as we age and remember when children, he will always be fondly remembered by me. My condolences to his family and loved ones.
My big brother Dave, I will miss him forever, he was always there for me , I am having a tearful time knowing I will not see him again on the lawnmower with his little best puppy friend Na Nee, riding in a basket on the front. He always had a hug and words of encouragement for me and my heart has a big empty space that only he could fill .
Dear Family and Friends,
The Burrill Family and G & K Services’ staff were the best neighbors possible. I especially remember David and Galen’s kindness to our, then 18 year old, son, Ben. With Galen’s support Dave helped Ben put a replacement motor in his VW bug. To this day every time I hear Ben comment on the care of his car, I also hear Dave’s wisdom and motor education resounding. We know how much Dave loved and cared about his family and friends. His wisdom and thoughtfulness will be missed but always remembered.
I had’nt seen Uncle Dave since grandma’s funeral, but I have fond memories of him when he was married to my aunt Betty, he was always lots of fun. My heart goes out to Dwayne and Darrell, as well as the rest of his family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We will miss seeing Dave out doing yardwork and the beautiful Christmas lights.