Obituary: Yake, Robert D.
Born in Spokane, WA, on October 28, 1943, to Harley and Virginia Yake, he graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1962 and immediately enlisted in the USMC, where he served in Vietnam.
After his tour, he was stationed in Bremerton, WA, where he met his bride, Joy.
Following their marriage in 1966, they returned to Spokane and both completed their degrees at EWU.
He served as a police officer and homicide detective for Spokane Police Dept.
Eventually he joined his wife full-time at JoyBell Christian School House and, together, they owned and operated the school for over 40 years, impacting hundreds of families before retiring in 2014.
Bob enjoyed boating, RVing, and cheering on his grandsons.
He received great fulfillment in serving God by helping others.
He was a selfless, behind-the-scenes worker, who loved his family fiercely and prayed for each with great fervor.
He left a legacy of love and faith, including his adored wife Joy of nearly 49 years; his son Jeff, and his daughter, Jennifer Hurst (Kyle); and five treasured grandsons who loved their Papa: Levi, Carter, Gavan, Owen, and Keaton.
Bob is also survived by his sisters, Deanna Anderson (Dave), Caroline Horlacher (Craig,); and his brother, Larry Yake (Ardis); as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A memorial celebration will be held at Valley Assembly of God in Spokane Valley, on Saturday March 28 at 2:00p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the missions program at Valley Assembly of God or to Hospice of Spokane.
The Yake Family would like to thank Cancer Care North West, Spokane Hospice House, and all of the friends and family who have so graciously and generously supported us throughout this difficult season.