Kenneth Alan Yocum, 68, arrived in his heavenly home on November 2, 2024. He was born on November 26, 1955, to Charles and Rena (Wigle) Yocum and married the love of his life, Kathryn J. Donovan, on June 12, 1982. Through their 42 years of marriage, Kenny and Kathy were blessed with five children: Michael (Ashley) Yocum (Marion), Daniel (Leah) Yocum (Marion), Stephen (Meagan Elston) Yocum (Marion), Sarah (Sam) Carsey (Westfield), and Rebekah (Josh) Finch (Warsaw), and 12 grandchildren: Jase, Deacon, Gavriel, Gideon, Ailana, Micah, Caleb, Eleanor, Joel, Everett, Theodore, and Grace.
Kenny was preceded in death by his parents and his granddaughter, Suzie. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; 5 children; 12 grandchildren; 2 sisters, Karen Hoss and Beth (Roy) Hix; brother, Kevin (Jennifer) Yocum; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Anyone who knew Kenny knew of his love first for the Lord and second for his beautiful Kathryn. Kenny loved being a father and always told his children that he loved them and was proud of them. He also told anyone who would listen that being a grandpa was even better. Kenny adored his grandchildren and would do anything for them. He was their teacher, coach, singer, chauffeur, story reader, wilderness guide, tractor driver, and prayer warrior.
Kenny enjoyed spending his time outside, working in the garden or walking through the woods. Each morning was spent in God’s Word with his daily devotion and much of his time was spent reading, doing word puzzles, and watching Jeopardy.
A graduate of Taylor University and Ball State University, Kenny taught for over 40 years at Eastbrook Community Schools serving as head teacher, department chair, and practicum supervisor while educating junior high and high school students about U.S. history, world geography, U.S. government, and other social studies curriculum.
Outside of the classroom, Kenny coached track, cross-country, basketball, softball, and football during his tenure at Eastbrook. His teams won numerous county, conference, and tournament victories. His cross-country teams amassed over 3,500 wins, and he coached athletes at the state level in softball, track, and cross-country.
A true servant leader, much of Kenny’s free time was spent volunteering throughout his community. He was involved with the Grant County Rescue Mission and Salvation Army, Heritage Pointe Nursing Home, Grant County Quilters’ Association, Upland Baseball/Softball Leagues, Billy Graham Crusade, Promise Keepers, Youth For Christ, Campus Life, and Wandering Wheels, as well as a nursery worker, choir member, and youth counselor through his church.
Kenny had the self-described privilege to be an inspector at his polling location for over 20 years before serving as the Monroe Township Trustee until the time of his passing. Kenny’s service and contributions led to him receiving the Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 2018, Indiana’s highest honor given to citizens for their wisdom, public commitment, and concern of the well-being of others.
Kenny spent his life serving others and rarely met a stranger. He had an ability to bring out the best in everyone and be a light in their lives. As his final earthly act, Kenny was able to be a hero through organ donation and save the lives of others.
A visitation will take place at The River Church in Marion, IN, on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 10:00 am at The River Church.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
