Raymond Alan Yarnell's Obituary
Raymond Yarnell (June 24,1949-Decemberr 18, 2023)
Born in Chanute Kansas on June 24, 1949 to Laurel E and Ruth E (Olson) Yarnell. He attended Midway schools and graduated in 1967. From 1968-1969, he served his country fighting in the Vietnam war in the U.S. Army 25th Infantry Division, Tropical Lightning Company, 2-14, then transferring to the Big Red 1, A Troop 3-17, where he was a helicopter observer and door gunner (Rank E-5). He was the recipient of the silver service star for his efforts in combat in Vietnam. After his time in the Army, he pursued his high school sweetheart Marva Runer along with his desire to farm. He began farming with Wayne Ward then farmed independently after Wayne's passing. Raymond also spent time working at Custom Campers and McCoys Lawline, retiring in whole in 2010 due to medical reasons.
On Friday, November 13, 1970, he married Marva Runer. They had two sons, Alan Wayne and Scot Lee, and resided in Buffalo Kansas where they were surrounded by family. He was proud of his family and their accomplishments and proud of his granddaughters, calling Kylee and Alexis (Alan's daughters), "his women". He enjoyed family visits, attending his granddaughter's school functions, and visiting people around the countryside. Raymond was always looking for a jovial conversation just as his father Laurel. He said after Vietnam he "wouldn't worry about the small things in life". During his retirement he found his time spent discussing shortcomings of the government and the Department of Veterans Affairs. He was a lifetime VFW member, a member of Chanute Post 170 American Legion, and a member of the High Prairie Church.
He was proceeded in death by his parents (Laurel and Ruth Yarnell) and older brother Stephen Yarnell. Survivors include his wife Marva, sons Alan and Scot, granddaughters Kylee and Alexis, siblings Ted and Kathy along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A graveside memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at 2:30 pm at Buffalo Cemetery in Buffalo, Kansas, with military honors by the Chanute Honor Guard. Memorials have been suggested to High Prairie United Methodist Church or First Christian Church in Chanute and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com. Services entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home 101 N. Highland, Chanute, Kansas 66720.
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