Joseph A. Yakovich

Joe was born on July 26, 1937 in Kingston, Pennsylvania, a son of the late Joseph and Frances (Miller) Yakovich. He was a career Air Force veteran who saw a tour of duty in Vietnam and held many positions over his 29 year history with the Air Force. Many of those years were spent in Europe. He retired in 1987 as Alert Pad Chief at the former K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base.

During his service in Europe, Joe met his future wife, the former Edelgard Klopsch. They were married on August 24, 1962 in Berlin. They established a family and had two children, Heidi and Monika. Joe took his career and service to his country very seriously.

During his retirement years he loved to fish, hunt and spend his time antiquing and expanding his collections. More than anything else, Joe enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and taking care of his wife for many years.

Joe is survived by two daughters, Heidi (Brett) Davidson of Marquette and Monika (Chris) Christman of Jefferson, MD: four grandchildren, Erik (Skylar) Davidson of Marquette, Elsbet Davidson and her significant other, KC Brockel of Marquette, Kaley Christman and Victoria Christman, both of Jefferson, MD; one cherished great granddaughter, Elowyn Edelgard Davidson who was born on October 17, 2023; also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

At Joe’s request, a private family celebration of his life will take place at a later date.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Yakovich family where memories of Joe may be shared at canalefuneral.com.