Truman H Yeager

Truman Harvue Yeager, age 81, passed away on March 25, 2026, after a period of illness, along the Naches River—a place he deeply loved. 

Born on December 6, 1944, Truman spent his early years in Priest Rapids, WA. before moving in 1948 to Yakima, and later settling in Selah, where he raised his family and built a life. 

Truman attended McKinley Grade School, Franklin Junior High, and A.C. Davis High School, graduating in the class of 1963. During his school years, he was active in athletics—playing basketball, football and running track—while also working at Jordan’s Drug. He went on to continue his football career at a college in Calgary, Canada, and later attended Central Washington College.

Truman proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in 1968-1969 as part of the 737 Transportation company wherein he served as a heavy machine operator. Truman spent his career in the Yakima Valley’s fruit industry, dedicating many years to Snokist Growers. As a successful salesman, he built relationships around the world rooted in genuine connection—far beyond the fruit. And while his travels often took him far from home, he made family a priority—insisting on dinners together where the television was off and phones went unanswered.

Truman, affectionately known as Butch to close friends and family, had an unmistakable laugh. He enjoyed hunting, watching sports, collecting stamps, coins and coaching his son's sports. He was a father figure to many, offering advice, sharing life lessons, and providing steady support whenever it was needed. 

In retirement - and increasingly as the years passed - Truman found deep joy in nature. He cherished life in the woods, watching birds, feeding deer, and listening to the flowing river just outside his door. Whether at Tailgaters, Whistlin’ Jack’s, or simply sitting outside his back door, he left an imprint that will be deeply missed.

Truman was preceded in death 21 years ago, by his wife of 21 years, Karla Marie (Long) Yeager; his parents, Anna Isobel (Stradling) Yeager and Silas Edgar Yeager Sr.; his parents-in-law, Loretta Copley and Carl Long; his sister, Jo Ann (Yeager) Atkins; and his brother, Dean Robert Yeager.

He is survived by his daughter, Kalyn (Yeager) D’occhio, her husband Michael D’occhio, and their children, Carlin and Cameron; his son, Colton Yeager, his wife Stephanie (Lovette) Yeager, and their children, Kase and Nora; and his stepdaughter, Jocelyn (Treitman) Cook, her husband Adam Cook, and their children, Ethan and Hannah. His sisters, Jeanetta (Yeager) Arenott and Murrel (Yeager) Dawson; his brother, Silas Edgar Yeager Jr.; as well as many extended family members whom he loved dearly.

Truman is also survived by his companion, Barbara Binder, with whom he shared many of his later years. Together, they enjoyed countless adventures and shared a deep love of nature, sports, family, and laughter. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to support the critical work and lifesaving efforts of the Nile-Cliffdell Fire & Rescue Department: 

Nile-Cliffdell Fire District 14 Association: 13670 State Route 410 Naches, WA 98937

A funeral service will be held at 9:00 AM on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Valley Hills Funeral Home, 2600 Business Lane, Yakima, WA.

A graveside service will follow at 10:00 AM at Terrace Heights Memorial Park, 3001 Terrace Heights Drive, Yakima, WA.