Joseph Louis Yaeger

Joseph Louis Yaeger was born to Joseph and Gladys Yaeger in Stamford, Ct on March 26, 1935. As a young boy he was active in the Catholic Church and attended Holy Name elementary and St Basil’s Preparatory School where he was an athletic star in three sports. He went on to attend and graduate from Notre Dame University with a Bachelors in Business. Besides being a star player on the Notre Dame baseball team Joe also proudly joined the Air Force ROTC and graduated as a Second Lieutenant. In the summer prior to beginning his service with the Air Force Joe signed and played in the Milwaukee Braves minor league organization. While in the Air Force Joe flew the F102 Delta Dagger and had tours in Thule, Greenland and Okinawa, Japan. He received an honorable discharge at the rank of Captain. He went on to serve in the National Guard in New York and finally in San Antonio, TX where he pinned on Major and was the only “weekender” to earn the distinguished honor of Master of Air Defense. He spent 29 years as a pilot with American Airlines where he flew the Boeing 727,757 and the 767. His superior flight skills earned him the role of Check Airman prior to his retirement in 95’.  He continued to fly for a few more years with NetJet as Captain on the Lear Jet. 

Throughout his life, Joe enjoyed all things baseball and golf. He coached his children and grandchildren in both sports and is loved and adored far beyond most men’s reach due to the contributions he made to so many young peoples lives by volunteering his time. His love of golf took him all over the world playing any course he could find. His most memorable golf matches with his sons or grandsons, any American Airlines golf tournament and annual guys trip to watch the British Open. 

On May 14, 2020 the good Lord called Joe home. He is survived by his loving wife Diana his five children: Jere, Jeff, Jon, Joanna, and Stacie. And his first wife Judy. Jon's wife Myra, and Joanna’s husband Mark. His nine grandchildren; Aaron, Austin, Megan, Olivia, Breyton, Caden, Brennen, Ava, and Jon Denton. His brother Allan and Allan’s wife and children; Gretchen, Gary, and Allison, and countless other family and friends he loved and adored. 

He will be remembered for his infectious smile, kindness, and love of all things family. His ashes will be placed at Houston National Cemetery as soon as Military Honors resume. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Guillain-Barré Foundation International at https://www.gbs-cidp.org/.

Following the Committal Service of Mr. Yaeger's cremated remains, there will be a reception at the home of his daughter Stacie Keneker.  Information will be provided after the Committal Service.

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