Paul "PJ" Joseph Yakel

Paul “PJ” Yakel’s life began February 7th, 1970, in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He grew up in St. Joseph where he graduated high school and was a member of their State  Champion football team. After high school PJ continued his education earning an associate degree in Alaska. He worked for many years as an administrator for several Adult Foster Care Homes in the area. Outside of work PJ loved to travel especially to Florida; which was fitting since he loved the beach and cheering on his favorite football team the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. PJ also loved staying in shape by weightlifting and working out. PJ will be remembered as a free spirit and for having a great relationship with God.

PJ died unexpectedly Wednesday, July 6 th, 2022 in Florida. He leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory including: his wife of 16 years Beverly Yakel; two children Joshua Benya and Chloe Bryant; two step-children Justin (Lexi Thomas) Arthur and Tiffany (George) Gaunder; two loving grandchildren Anthony and Maci; his parents Paul and Pam Yakel; his mom Lonna Davis; a sister Shelly McGarey; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

PJ is proceeded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, Mother In Law Julie, Aunt Rose, and Uncles Greg, Bill and John. 

PJ’s life will be celebrated Thursday, July 14, 2022 with funeral service at 2:00 PM and visitation before starting at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow in Hickory Bluff Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Paul’s name to the American Heart Association. You are invited to leave a message of comfort for Paul’s family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul "PJ" Joseph Yakel, please visit our floral store.