Aug. 4, 1946 - May 10, 2013

ELKHART — Robert Joseph Yaratch Sr., 66, of Elkhart, passed away Friday, May 10, 2013, in Kokomo.

He was born Aug. 4, 1946, in Corry, Pa., to Joseph G. and Betty (Pearson) Yaratch.

Survivors include two sons, Robert J. (Jennifer) Yaratch Jr. of Elkhart and Billy J. Yaratch of Elkhart; daughter Vicky (John) Joiner of Virginia; two brothers, John (Lisa) Yaratch of Tampa, Fla., and David Goodwin of Evansville; four sisters, Beverly (Art) Carlstrom of Easley, S.C., Barb Abbey of Jacksonville, Fla., Peggy (Dennis) Shelters of Falconer, N.Y., and Diana McClaran of Lakewood, Colo.; brother-in-law, David Goodwin of Evansville; seven grandsons; and seven granddaughters.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Tracie Yaratch.

Robert served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He later worked for Monaco Coach Company for several years prior to his retirement. He enjoyed spending time with his family and especially his loving pets, "Patches" and "Tommy."

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 16, 2013, at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, and for one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service Friday, May 17, 2013, at Billings Funeral Home. Pastor Gary Sheets will officiate. The U.S. Marine Corps and the DAV 19 Funeral Honor Guard will render military honors. Cremation will follow at Altera Cremation Services.

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