ELKHART -- Micheal Eugene "Mike" Yonkers, 56, of Elkhart, died Saturday (Dec. 6, 2008) in Elkhart General Hospital after an extended illness.

He was born Jan. 30, 1952, in Elkhart to Morel H. Yonkers and Ethel P. Watson.

Mr. Yonkers is survived by his longtime companion Eleanor "Ellie" McClane of Elkhart; two sons, Michael C. Yonkers of Elkhart and Eric J. McClane of Elkhart; and two brothers, Morel II "Moe" (Amy Jo) Yonkers of Elkhart and John D. (Robin) Yonkers of Elkhart.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Charles R. "Charlie" Yonkers.

Mr. Yonkers attended Elkhart High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam, where he was a heavy equipment operator with the 82nd Engineering Battalion. He was a construction worker for various area companies until his health forced early retirement in 2002.

In his youth, Mr. Yonkers was active as a Boy Scout and achieved the rank of Life Scout and belonged to the Order of the Arrow. He also played City Parks League baseball for the Barons. He loved all types of music and taught himself to the play guitar. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, spending time with family and friends, and rooting for the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears and Notre Dame.

A gathering of friends and family will take place at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. A memorial service will take place at 1 p.m. at the funeral home, with honors rendered by Elkhart DAV Chapter 19 and the U.S. Army Funeral Honor Guard. The Rev. James Holliday will officiate. Cremation has taken place and his remains will be inurned in the Veterans Section of Prairie Street Cemetery at a later date. Elkhart VFW Post 88 will have a meal immediately following the services on West Bristol Street.

Memorials may be given to Lifeline of Elkhart. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.billingsfuneralhome.com.