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Howard Lee Yeakel, age 57, passed away peacefully at his home in Allentown on Saturday, December 1st, 2012 after a courageous 6 month battle with cancer.
Born in Allentown Osteopathic Hospital on June 16th, 1955, he was the youngest child of Chester Franklin Yeakel, Sr. [1906-1969] and Anne (nee Godusky). Howard grew up in Vera Cruz and graduated from Salisbury High School in 1974, where he was the gold key winner in the National Scholarship Arts Award.
Howards love for floral and interior design, his artistic ability, and a special gift for cheerful and enthusiastic service led him to open the 19th Street Greenery and Floral Shop in Allentown. When I have someone step into my shop, I want them to feel they have stepped into another world! he said. Weddings and Special Events were Howards specialty, and he personalized every one. In 1992, Howard accepted a position with Phoebe Floral in Allentown and at the time of his passing was Manager of Special Events and the Silk Department. Over these 20 years he planned many weddings; The skys the limit as far as what we can do!
Yeakel carried this philosophy into joint planning of the annual Lehigh Valley Hospital Fundraiser known as Nightlights; the annual DeSales University Fundraiser; and the many Christmas Display assignments around the Valley. Customers and friends loved him for his warmth, humor and willingness to do just about anything to help them, not only professionally but in his community work. He was an OUTREACH hospice volunteer for several years in the 90s and participated in many public organizations and fundraisers. His early career included various positions at Hesss Department Store and Showroom Manager and Interior Electrical Design Consultant at All-Phase Electric and Coleman Electric.
Survivors: Howard is survived by three brothers: Arthur Charles Yeakel- married to Margaret (nee Dudkiewicz) of Highland, CA, Chester Franklin Yeakel, Jr.-married to Martha (nee Tognoli, deceased) of Fogelsville, and Richard M. Yeakel, Sr.-married to Eleanor (nee Boehm) of Allentown; five nephews; and seven nieces. Howard is predeceased by a brother Charles Robert Yeakel, and a nephew: Michael Sean Yeakel.
Services: We all know we have lost a bright light in our midst but have gained a new star in our sky. Howards wish was to invite all friends and relatives to join him in spirit for a Celebration of Life. This Memorial will be held at the Allentown Art Museum, 31 N.5th Street,on Tuesday, December 11, 4:30 to 7 p.m. Parking is available in the lot at the S.E. corner of 6th and Linden Streets. Interment and will be private at Old Zionsville UCC Cemetery. Arrangements by the Nicos C. Elias Funeral Home of Allentown.
Contributions: Donations to the Allentown Art Museum and/or The Baum School of Art.
Published in Morning Call on Dec. 7, 2012
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