Kathleen Younker

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Kathleen Marie Younker, 92, of Monett, MO, passed away on Sunday morning, November 26, 2023, at Aurora Nursing Home, following a short illness.

Kathleen was born on September 4, 1931 in Pierce City, daughter of the late Elmer and Margaret (Diebold) Mettlach. Kathleen graduated from Pierce City High School Class of 1949. She was a member of the St. Lawrence Catholic Church and the St. Lawrence Alter Society (PCCW). She loved being with family, being outdoors and sitting for hours watching birds and squirrels playing in her yard. She enjoyed helping her friends, family and church with a smile.

On May 28, 1949, Kathleen Marie Mettlach married Willmer Clayton Younker in Pierce City, they were married seventy-three years before his passing in December of last year, creating good memories together. To this union, three children were born.

Kathleen is survived by one son, David Younker of Monett, four grandchildren, Timothy Younker and wife Sarah, Thomas Younker, Kayla Younker and Jennifer Arzate and husband Max; one great-granddaughter, Adrienne Arzate; two brothers, David Mettlach and wife Margo of Aurora, MO and Dennis Mettlach of Wentworth, MO; six sisters, Eleanor Johnson of Kansas City, MO, Ann Marrs of Monett, Beatrice Dalton of Kansas City, MO, Mary Jenkins of Independence, MO, Dorothy Fischer and husband Ted of Omaha, NE and Charlene Hubbard and husband Wayne of Springfield, MO; and a host of extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by one son, Timothy B. Younker; one daughter, Annette Younker; and one brother, James Mettlach.

Funeral mass for Mrs. Younker will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church with Father Rahab Isidor officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 6-7:30 p.m. with rosary to follow at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. 

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Lawrence Catholic School. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.