James C. Yetzer, 93, formerly of Queens Road, St. Marys, PA passed away on Friday, March 10, 2023 at Elk Haven Nursing Home following a lengthy illness.

He was born on September 23, 1929 in St. Marys, PA, fourteenth of eighteen children born to the late Leo and Priscilla Wallwork Yetzer.

On February 28, 1956, he married the late Ruth Ann Thiel, who preceded him in death in 1961. On July 13, 1963, he married the late June Taylor, who preceded him in death in 2010.

A lifelong resident of St. Marys, Jim graduated from St. Marys Area High School, class of 1947. He attended the Air Force Officer Candidate Program and was a 6 year veteran of the United States Air Force. He served 3 years in the Far East Material Command during the Korean War, was the ranking NCO for the 10th Air Force Personnel Audit Team, and was honorably discharged on August 4, 1954 with the rank of Technical Sergeant. James was awarded the National Defense Ribbon, Korean Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation and the United Nations Service Medal.

A 28 year Speer Carbon employee, he was a former member of the Airco Quarter Century Club, being named as Man of the Year in 1968 and president of the club in 1969. During these years, he held memberships in various local organizations, including the American Legion, where he served as Chairman of the Legion 50th Anniversary Committee, the Saint Marys Elks Club, and also a former member of the Masons, attaining 32nd degree Scottish Rite of Coudersport Consistory. He was also active in the St. Marys Knothole Association, volunteering as team coach and umpire. Politically active, Mr. Yetzer served as chairman of the Elk County Commissioners from 1984 until 1987.

He is survived by 3 children; JoAnn Anderson of St. Marys, James Yetzer, Jr. of Pensacola, FL, and Jeff (Debbie) Yetzer of St. Marys; by 11 grandchildren; Tim, Janie, Josh, Emily, Adam, Jesse, Roger, Chris, Brandon, Natalie, and Stephanie, as well as by 11 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and his first and second wives, he was preceded in death by 12 brothers; Casper, Thomas, John, twins Harry and Howard, Boyd, Richard, Leo, Allen, Dane, Kenneth, and one brother in infancy. He was also preceded in death by 5 sisters; Doris Guynn, Frieda Wittman, Anna May Fritz, Marjorie Lanzel, and Peggy Lou Yetzer who passed away at the age of 15, and by his son-in-law; Kenneth Anderson. James was the last member of this once large family.

A Memorial Service for James C. Yetzer will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Lynch-Green Funeral Home with Rev. Ron Burkett officiating. 

Family and friends will be received at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.

Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to a charity of choice.

Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.lynchgreenfuneralhome.com