Emma Yocum Passes Away

Emma L. (Pageler) Yocum went to be with her Lord and Heavenly family on Thanksgiving night, November 25, 2021, at the St. Marys Manor.

Emma was born on January 5, 1934, on a farm north of Belvue, KS and spent her entire life in the St. Marys, KS area.  She was the only daughter of Reinhardt and Vaneta (Cox) Pageler.  She attended a one-room school north of Belvue, Belvue Grade School, and graduated from St. Marys High School in 1952.  After graduation, she married her high school sweetheart. 

She worked as a clerk for Blue Cross and Blue Shield until she became a stay-at-home mother to raise their 4 boys.  She later worked for the Standard Gas Station in St. Marys.  She worked as a para-professional for USD 321 from where she retired in 1996.

Emma filled her life with many activities in the community, including teaching Sunday School at St. Marys United Methodist Church.  She also enjoyed dancing with the Swinging Squares.  She and her husband, Nick were active in their children’s and grandchildren’s activities.

She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Clarence “Nick” Yocum.  They were married on September 13, 1953, at the Evangelical & Reformed Church-Wells Creek.  

Together they raised 4 sons.  Steve Yocum, Lawrence, KS; John Yocum (Jennifer) Lawrence, KS; David Yocum (Kristi) St. George KS; James Yocum (Kerri) St. Marys KS.

Emma and Nick are blessed with 9 Grandchildren.  Travis Yocum (Lori), Nichol Gallegos (Zack), Eva Parkin (Levi), Ethan Yocum (Faith), Brandon Yocum (Becca), Jenna Yocum (Matthew Klotz), Ryan Yocum (Karlee), Hayley Smith (John), and Trevor Yocum.

They also have 12 Great-Grandchildren: Alex, Noah, Anna Beth, Zackary, and Thaddeus Gallegos; Aubrey Carrier & Olivia Klotz; Pierce Yocum; Avah & Cale Yocum; Weiss Parkin, and one on the way.

Her life will be celebrated on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Marys United Methodist Church. Interment will be at Valley View Cemetery in St. Marys.   Family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, December 3, 2021, at Piper Funeral Home.

Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Marys United Methodist Church in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple Street, St Marys KS 66536.