Robert Wayne Yelkin

Bob Yelkin of Hickman, NE passed away in his home on Saturday, April 23, 2022. He was born in Sioux City, Iowa, to Merle and Jean Yelkin, grew up in Dakota City, Nebraska, moving to West Point in junior high. He excelled in basketball, football, and track at West Point High, shared his talents in the high school band, and met Gerayne Daberkow who would become his bride on March 1, 1971.

He joined the Navy out of high school and traveled the world on the USS Independence. It was during this time that he fell in love with Gerayne, a girl from hometown West Point who joined him out on the east coast to start their life together. They returned to Nebraska, brought three beautiful children into the world (Ben, Sophia and Zach), and enjoyed a marriage of over 50 years.

Bob worked in road and bridge construction for many years. He was known for having high expectations for his crews and pushing them (in a good way). Odds are if you have driven in eastern Nebraska you have ridden over his work.

If you met Bob you did not forget him. He was passionate about many things, and not afraid to share his opinions with anyone, especially if they involved politics or Husker football.

Bob loved to hunt, fish, golf and enjoyed woodworking later in life. As he transitioned into retirement, he spent hours sanding and turning old barn wood into all types of things including picture frames, cabinets, dressers and even his own urn. Being the thoughtful man he is, he even made an urn for his wife. :)

He loved his “honey” Gerayne and had his own special way of showing it. Whether that was a well thought gift ($100 wrapped around an ice scraper) or a heart on a note before he left the house, he always had her in his heart.

Bob was a great father to his three children. He held them to high standards, was tough but loving and instilled a work ethic through his own actions. His love for athletics showed through his kids and there were many nights on Brentwood where he would be found shooting baskets in the driveway with them or trying to hit wiffle golf balls over the house. He rarely missed a game his kids played in, and always had a tip or two for the referees (during) and the kids after the game.

He was always making updates and remodels to the house on Brentwood. New decks, windows, rooms, and floors made the house his masterpiece. The battle with the “whirlibirds” was a constant struggle against his standard of perfection for his lawn and landscaping.

Bob is survived by his wife Gerayne; Children - Ben (Sarah), Sophia, and Zach (Megan); Grandchildren – Azalea, Keelyn, Logan and Brynna; Brother – Bud (Suzanne); and a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends that loved him.

Funeral service will be 2 PM Friday, April 29th at Christ Lincoln Church (42nd and Sumner) with burial at Yankee Hill Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Hickman Legion Hall Friday evening starting around 5PM. Memorials can be sent to Christ Lincoln Church or the charity of your choice.

If you are unable to attend please join the family virtually at: https://boxcast.tv/view/april-29-2022-sacntuary-funeral-bdvi29s9lo3k959994m6