Albert R. Yanke

Albert R. Yanke, 92, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on August 9, 2025, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born on March 3, 1933, in Beaver, Oklahoma, to Robert and Hannah (Kirschman) Yanke.

Albert grew up in the Oklahoma/Texas Panhandle and graduated from Follett, Texas High School in 1951. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma Panhandle State University in 1956 and then served his country for three years in the United States military. Upon returning, he completed his teaching certificate at Oklahoma State University in 1960. Albert taught in Oklahoma for many years before moving to Kansas, where he managed a large farm. His meticulous record keeping, patience, and keen eye for detail served him well in both teaching and farming.

Albert married Pat Smith on June 11, 1961, and together they built a loving home for their two children, Basil and Gretchen. After Pat’s passing, God blessed him with a second chapter of love when he married Karlynn Fabrizius on November 18, 2000, and his heart and home grew to welcome four more children—Alana, Alan, Amy, Ayn and families.

Albert’s life reflected his strong Christian faith. He taught by example, shared his knowledge generously, and always had time for others. He enjoyed singing with the High Plains Barbershop Chorus, farming (even when it meant battling yucca plants), fishing, hunting, and playing games—especially when he could claim victory over his grandchildren at the board game table.

He was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in WaKeeney.

Albert is survived by his children: Basil (Dea) Yanke of Atchison, KS, Gretchen (Fred) Hafliger of WaKeeney, Alana Kasparek of Oskaloosa, KS, Alan (Laura) Fabrizius of Wilson, KS, Amy (Keith) Wilson of Riverton, KS, and Ayn (Pat) Wilson of Wichita, KS; brothers, Clarence (Marilyn) Yanke of Sunray, TX and Vernon Yanke of Amarillo, TX; 18 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wives; sister, Bonita McKisson; grandson, Christopher Kasparek; and great-grandson, Liam Kasparek.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:30AM at Zion Lutheran Church in Trego Center, with Visitation beginning at 9AM until service time.

Memorials are suggested to Hays High Plains Barbershop Chorus and Zion Lutheran Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.