Robert L. Yanke, Jr., 65, of Lorain and formerly of Elyria, died Thursday, June 28, 2012 at his home. He was born August 13, 1946 in Elyria, and was a 1964 graduate of Elyria High School. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War and was stationed in Taiwan.
Bob was formerly employed for 20 years at General Motors Fisher Body in Elyria. Later in life, he was passionate about helping Vietnam veterans and was a founding member of Veterans Who Care Ohio Chapter. He was a fundraiser for the Retired Police and Firefighters of Ohio; The Blue Knights and Veteran Firefighters of American Legion #339. Bob was a member of St. Lad’s Club in Lorain and was a fun loving guy, always ready to tell a joke, play poker or have a beer with his buddies.
Bob is survived by a daughter, Jennifer L. Yanke of Lorain; son, Jeffrey L. Yanke of Kansas City, Missouri; sister, Kimberly Yanke of Huron; stepson, Dante Santiago of Savannah, Georgia; stepdaughter, Dawnelle Santiago of Strongsville; grandchildren, Orlando and Erica L. Velez and Marisa and Ciera Yanke; one great-granddaughter; and former wives, Linda Basile and Cindy Yanke.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert L. and Lois A. (nee Fell) Yanke, Sr.
Friends will be received Monday, July 2, 2012, from 4 until 7 P.M., at Dicken Funeral Home, 323 Middle Ave. Elyria. A graveside service will be Tuesday, July 3, 2012, 11 A.M., at Brookdale Cemetery in Elyria. Reverend Jonathan McCleery will officiate, with Elyria V.F.W. #1079 conducting military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Bob Yanke Funds for Vets, C/O First Federal Savings of Lorain, 2233 East 42nd Street, Lorain, OH 44055.
For online condolences, visit www.dickenfuneralhome.com
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