Royce Lee Yager, 73, passed away peacefully February 11, 2024, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis with his loving partner Marcia and daughter Stephanie by his side. Royce, the youngest of two brothers, was born June 16, 1950, in Hutchinson, to Regis and Mary Joan (Collins) Yager, Sr.
He attended Nickerson Schools, and proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, in the 101st Airborne Reconnaissance Platoon. He retired as a road operator after 12 years of service with Reno County Public Works.
Royce had an immense passion for music. He enjoyed a variety of music from the 50s through the 80s eras which included a lot of Motown. His adventurous spirit led to his interests, including guns, fishing, classic muscle cars, and building computers. He was known to be strong willed and stubborn at times, but always carried himself with dignity and strength. Those close to him will always fondly remember his fun, lighthearted sarcasm and witty sense of humor.
Royce was a principled man of integrity in search of the truth. In his final days, he deeply contemplated his faith, recommitted himself to Christ, and was baptized.
Royce is survived by: common-law wife, Marcia Cotter of Arlington; daughters, Stephanie Wright (Michael) of Yates Center, and Deena Fuller (Jim) of Wakarusa; brother and best friend, Regis Yager, Jr. (Carol Dirksen) of Nickerson; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two dogs, Paxton (Puppy) and Caesar (Goober); several loyal friends; and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by: his parents; Stephanie and Deena’s mother, Deborah; and his second wife, Kathy Yager.
Celebration of Life Service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, February 26, 2024, at Elliott Chapel. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.
Click here to view Royce's Celebration of Life Service
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Kansas Honor Flight, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.