Wayne Ytell

(From Knell Mortuary)

Colonel Wayne Hans Ytell, 86, Carthage, MO, passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at St. Luke’s Nursing Center, Carthage. Wayne was born November 14, 1931 in Joplin, MO to the late Alvin Hans and Lillie Lenore (Codding) Ytell. He grew up in Columbus, KS and was a graduate of Columbus High School. Wayne attended Kansas State University and graduated from Reisch American School of Auctioneering. He served in the United States Navy during the Korean War.

On January 18, 1953, Wayne married Mary Elaine Byler in Carthage, MO. Elaine preceded him in death in 1995. Wayne and Elaine made their home in Carthage and together owned Ytell Auction Service, LLC. Here, they raised their children, Hans and Beth. Wayne and Elaine always shared their home with family and friends.

Wayne and Elaine were faithful members of Grace Episcopal Church. He served on the vestry and for 50 years as a lay reader. Wayne was a member of the National Auctioneers Association, Appraisers National Association, and the Missouri Auctioneers Association. He was inducted into the Missouri Auctioneer’s Hall of Fame in 1987. His service to the community included serving as a member and President of the Carthage Rotary Club, chair of the Maple Leaf Festival and on the board of St. Luke’s Nursing Center. He was a Paul Harris Fellow with Rotary International. Wayne will be remembered for his quick wit, generosity as the only real Santa to many generations of Carthage families.

Survivors include his son, Franklin Hans Ytell, Carthage, MO; daughter, Elizabeth Ann Kang (Chris), Sacramento, CA; two nieces, Jeanie Marsaglia and Sherry Erickson both of Springfield, IL; and countless friends. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Carrie, wife Elaine and brothers, Gordon and Billie.

The Family would like to thank the staff of St. Luke’s for the love and care they gave to Wayne.

The Family will receive friends on Monday, January 22, 2018 from 5pm-7pm at Knell Mortuary in Carthage. Holy Eucharist will be at 2 pm on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at Grace Episcopal Church. Fr. Steve Wilson and Fr. Ted Estes will officiate. A “Celebration of Wayne’s Life” will be held later this fall. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are suggested to the Parish Nurse Fund ~ Grace Episcopal Church or the fund for the Residents of St. Luke’s Nursing Center in care of Knell Mortuary, 308 W. Chestnut, Carthage, MO 64836. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.