Jack A. Yaggie Obituary (1922 - 2015)

Jack A. Yaggie, 92, died February 26, 2015 in Baker City, Oregon. A public Celebration of Life service is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 21 at Gray's West & Company Pioneer Chapel with Pastor Shawn Thatcher officiating. Jack was born on December 26, 1922 in Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania to Fred and Minnie Mae Yaggie. He graduated from high school in Bradford, Pennsylvania. After graduation Jack joined the Navy. He enlisted as an apprentice seaman in May of 1941 and served honorably for 27 years retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in July of 1968. His Navy career was extensive; serving in aviation and aboard over 8 USS vessels. He was a survivor of the Battle of the Corral Sea while stationed on the USS Lexington which was the first ship sunk during the battle. Jack was proud to have served his country and liked to share his experiences with others. After retiring from the Navy, Jack worked for the postal service as a mail carrier and also worked for the San Diego Tribune Newspaper. He married Barbara Yaggie in San Diego, California. His hobbies included boating-particularly to Catalina Island, deep sea fishing, gardening, walking, motorcycle riding, swimming and during his younger years lifting weights and boxing. He also loved to write and read poetry. Jack was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara Yaggie; daughter in law, Debbie Summers and son in law Gordon Summers. Jack is survived by two daughters, Frances Yaggie of Baker City and Dale Laskowitz of Maryland; son, Michael Yaggie of California; brother, Darrell Yonker of Pennsylvania and sister in law, Lois Yonker of Pennsylvania; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Contributions may be made in memory of Jack to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital and Wounded Warriors Project through Gray's West & Company Pioneer Chapel 1500 Dewey Avenue Baker City, Oregon 97814.