John Yoder Obituary

John Arnold (JAY) Yoder passed away in his home Monday evening, August 1, 2011. He was born July 12, 1925 to Eli and Ida Plank Yoder at Newton, Kansas. His parents farmed in the area of Newton Kansas. He spent days helping his father with farm work. He also frequently did farm work away from home, such as shearing sheep. As a young adult he worked in the high plains area hauling, assembling and selling farm machinery. He enjoyed selling equipment, traveling, and meeting people. In 1948 Jay married Betty Durham. They had two sons, Scott Yoder and Wade Yoder. They had two grandchildren, Josie and Joshua Yoder. When Jay was growing up, he read Zane Gray's book, Riders of the Purple Sage, and he dreamed of being a rancher some day. In 1955 Jay and Betty bought their home in Yoder, Colorado. Jay enjoyed being self employed as a rancher and farmer. He especially enjoyed selling bulls and attending 4-H market steer show activities at the Elpaso county fair. He joyfully worked on his ranch up until his last days. Jay served his community in several different capacities. Jay taught adult Sunday school for many years. He and his wife Betty were charter members of Kendrick Bible Church. He was Master of Ramah Masonic Lodge No. 165 A.F&A.M. in 1976. He served on the board of Edison School. He was also a member of Pikes Peak Cattleman's Association and Colorado Consistory. Jay is survived by his wife Betty Yoder, his son Scott Yoder, his son and daughter in-law, Wade and Cynthia Yoder, and his grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Care - Odyssey Group.