James W. Yahr

Jim Yahr, formerly of Appleton, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Jim was 65. He was born in Appleton on May 3, 1941, beloved son of the late William and Marcella (Werner) Yahr. From 1960 until 1964, Jim lived with his aunt in Milwaukee; it was here that he met and married Judy. The couple moved to Appleton in 1964, and divorced fourteen years later in 1978. Jim lived most of his life in Appleton, near his family, and was employed by Gilbert Paper from 1964 until 1970. In 1970 he went to work for Kimberly-Clark, but disability forced his early retirement in 1990. He met Evelyn in Appleton while she was visiting relatives, and moved to Arkansas with her in 1992.

Jim was a kind, loving, talented, and artistic man who was much loved by all who knew him. His happiest times were spent on camping trips at Hidden Campsite on Pine Lake with his family and friends, where he enjoyed sitting around the campfire, playing the guitar, and singing for all would listen and sing along with him. He was a gourmet cook with a razor-sharp wit, and he loved to entertain friends and family. While living in Arkansas, Jim was an active volunteer with the Humane Society, and spent much of his time finding homes for orphaned or difficult-to-place cats and dogs.

Jim was the proud father of two daughters: Susan Frances Yahr of Appleton and her fiancé David Schulz, and Carrie (Cal) Schumacher of Appleton and their children Chelsea, Jake, and Kaylee; twin brothers: Donald (Dottie) Yahr of White Lake and Ronald (Patricia) Yahr of Appleton; two sisters: Patricia Frank and Kim (Scott) Nennig, all of Appleton; and his adoptive father: Gordon Drexler. Jim remained close to his two former wives, Judy Yahr of Appleton who is the mother of his daughters, and Evelyn Yahr of Jacksonville, Arkansas. Jim also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and his canine companions Angel, Little Boy, and Johnny.

Memorial Services will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, October 21, 2006 at the funeral home chapel. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday morning after 10 AM. A memorial fund has been established for the Fox Valley Humane Association.

Good-bye, Jim. You were well loved. –Your family forever.

Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida Street
Appleton, WI 54915
920-831-9905