Eric J. Yaeger

RICHMOND, Ind. – Eric J. Yaeger, age 84, of Richmond, died Monday, June 17, 2013, at Arbor Trace Exceptional Senior Living. Born June 28, 1928, in Melrose Park, Illinois, to John and Lydia Sauerbri Yaeger, he lived in Richmond since 2006. Eric was a 1946 graduate of Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois, where he was an all-state athlete in football and wrestling, a 1952 graduate of Purdue University where he played football and majored in physical education, and earned his master’s degree from Northern Illinois University. He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran, serving in Occupied Japan. Eric retired from the Proviso Township High School District in Hillside, Illinois, after 36 years as a physical education teacher. He was a coach of football, wrestling, and soccer, where he coached several state champions and teams. Eric enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, and was an avid sports fan. Above all he loved his family. Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Helen Marie Haughton Yaeger; daughters, Lynn Mackenzie of Oak Brook, Illinois, and Susan Yaeger of Eaton, Ohio; son, Michael (Sherry) Yaeger of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; grandchildren, Daniel (Sophie) Yaeger of Astoria, New York, Katherine Mackenzie of Chicago, Illinois, Melody Yaeger of Connecticut, Jessica Yaeger of Illinois, and Jordan Thurman; sister, Pauline Schultz of Illinois; nieces; nephews; and many friends including students and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service for Eric J. Yaeger will be held on Friday, June 28, 2013, at 1 p.m. at First English Lutheran Church, 2727 East Main Street, Richmond. Burial will follow at Earlham Cemetery Veteran’s Field of Honor with military honors provided by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Arrangements are being handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: First English Lutheran Church, 2727 East Main Street, Richmond, IN 47374 or Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1485, Richmond, IN 47375. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

Eric J. Yaeger

June 28, 1928 - June 17, 2013