Donald A. Yocum, 87

Don Yocum was born Jan. 1, 1923, to Job and Susan Yocum in Gering, Neb. He began his studies at Washington State University, but put his education on hold when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942. He was stationed in the South Pacific during WWII. While in the military, Don was proud to be a boxer, and was trained by Young Corbit III. After the war, Don resumed his studies at WSU, earning degrees in forestry and education. There he met Jeanette Carlsen. They were married in 1948 and raised three sons.

Don taught sixth grade and coached sports at schools in Coeur d'Alene, Colville and Tekoa, Wash. In 1974, Don helped start the Coeur d'Alene outdoor education program for sixth-graders. During the summers, he worked for the Forest Service. In 1951, Don and Jeanette built a cabin at Priest Lake where they would spend summers for the rest of their lives. Don loved nature and was an avid hiker and backpacker who taught his boys to love the outdoors. One of his lifetime goals was to keep Priest Lake a naturally beautiful, pristine area. Don and Jeanette retired to Lake Havasu City, Ariz., in 1980 but continued to spend summers on Priest Lake.

Don is survived by his sons: Brad Yocum of Hayden, Bruce (and Rosemary) Yocum of Priest Lake and Brent Yocum of Rathdrum; brother Rex Yocum of Cheyenne, Wyo.; sister Doris Doling of Lincoln, Neb.; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette one year ago.

The family is grateful for the care provided by Auburn Crest Hospice, By the Lake Assisted Living and NOSDA volunteers. The family suggests donations be made to Don's favorite environmental group, The Selkirk Conservation Alliance: P.O. Box 1809, Priest River, ID 83856.

Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, at Yates Funeral Home, Hayden Chapel. Please visit Don's online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.