Jason Shay Yanko, 40, died on June 23, 2015 at his place of work, Val-Fit Inc. in Houston, TX. Jason died in a workplace shooting, and because of his bravery, he prevented other lives from being lost.
Jason was born on May 19, 1975 in St. Louis, MO. He was the first born to Roger and Stephanie Yanko. His little sister, Krisha, was born 10 years later.
Jason graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Huntsville.
On November 16, 2006, Jason met the love of his life, Michelle Gray. Jason and Michelle were immediately drawn to one another's genuine character, loving nature, and laughter. They were married on June 28, 2009 aboard a cruise ship where their adventurous journey together was secured. It was a joyful, unforgettable celebration.
Jason is survived by his wife Michelle and their three children, Joesph (12), Callie (11), and Austin (10). Adopting their three children in October of 2014 is one of their life's greatest God-given joys. Jason is further survived by his mom and dad, Roger and Stephanie Yanko and his sister, Krisha Yanko.
Jason was full of life. He is remembered by some of his most recent quotes. "You are beautiful because of you," Jason recently told his wife, Michelle. "I want my family to be with me," he said about Michelle and the kids before their recent move to Texas. "Get with the program," Jason would say in his humorous way that always made his children laugh. "I will help you," said to his mom and sister on countless occasions. Finally, "I love you"- Jason assured his family every day. He was a generous, strong, hardworking, loving, and selfless man. He loved being with his family, grilling-out, Auburn Football, and the beach. Jason will be remembered with overwhelming gratitude and he leaves a legacy of generosity, protection, and abundant love for his family, friends, and coworkers.
Funeral services for Jason will be held at Kingwood Funeral Home in Kingwood, TX. Jason's visitation is scheduled for Sunday June 28,2015 from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm. A second visitation is scheduled on Monday June 29, 2015 at 9:00 am. A prayer service will follow at 11:00 am.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for our husband, son, brother and friend. You used his life to pour out your love. Thank you for being our Comforter, our Provider, our Helper, our Friend, and our Father.
Isaiah 55:8-9
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
We trust in the One who holds the Heavens, and the earth, and all He created in his hands.
A Memorial Fund for Michelle and the children has been established and memorial gifts can be made at http://www.gofundme.com/Val-Fit
Accommodations near Kingwood Funeral Home are below:
Homewood Suites – Inquire about bereavement rate (suite – breakfast/dinner included)
23320 Hwy 59 North
Kingwood, TX 77339
1-281-358-5566
Comfort Suites – Inquire about special rate for Kingwood Funeral Home
22223 Highway 59 North
Humble, TX 77339
1-281-359-4448
La Quinta
22790 Hwy 59 North
Kingwood, TX 77339
1-281-359-6611
Courtyard by Marriott
130 Northpark Plaza Drive
Kingwood, TX 77339
1-281-973-1790
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
June 23, 2016
Krisha
Family,
I have been praying a great deal and thanking the Lord for Jason all week and especially today on the anniversary of the day the Lord had set to be his last here with us on earth.
Thank you, Father, for a brother like Jason! Thank you Father, for being with us in the hardest of times and in the most joyful of times. Thank you for being our Hope and our Salvation.
I wrote a little poem and wanted to share with the family. I love you all and God has used you more than you will ever know to help us through this time. I am grateful.
I love you so much!
Krisha
One year ago today,
The Lord took you away.
I had no idea,
It would be my last day.
My last day to tell you,
You're the best big brother, an incredible dad with generosity like no other.
My last day to laugh as we teased mom about ullmonds and umans with so much joy,
Ask you for advice about my job and questions about boys.
My last day to look forward to my next visit to ATL,
Anticipating time with the kids, you and Michelle.
My last day to enjoy your masterpieces on the grill,
Enjoy your hospitality and thank you profusely for your grass cutting skills.
I've spent hours and hours remembering your life,
Love, protection, service, and sacrifice.
Then, I quickly thank our Father, for such a wonderful gift.
When my heart is heavy, the Lord never fails to lift.
He helps me look to Him with gratitude and praise,
The Lord gives, takes away, and we can trust all of His ways.
He numbers our days from first to last,
He prepares the way for our future and redeems our past.
I cling to Christ like never before,
With greater understanding of what hurt and pain can be used for.
They turns our attention to the One who gives life and breath,
The one who forgives sins, changes hearts, and offers life after death.
I cling to you Lord, you fulfill every need,
You promise never to forsake us, never to leave.
You brought me out of darkness, You wash away my sin,
You brought me to repentance, and gave me life in Him.
Jesus, Your son, You sacrificed for the sins man,
When we trust in Him and turn away from sin, with you in Heaven, we will one day stand.
Christ is the ultimate example of laying one's life down,
So I turn my face towards Him, and thank the Lord for the hope I have found.
Through the blood of Christ, your last day on earth can be your first with Him in glory.
This hope offered to us, can be the reason for our life's story.
I love you Jase, and thank you God for the gift of my brother and the ultimate gift of your son, Jesus.
September 2, 2015
Lori Severin
Dear Roger and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. I know the pain of losing Jason will never go away, but my prayer for you and your family is that it softens with time, allowing the memories of his life to bring you joy and laughter. God bless you all.
July 6, 2015
Doris Olford
To the Yanko's and their family: We do not know any of you personally, but we do feel your pain. As we read Jason's obituary and condolences sent to the family, we were just amazed at how well he was thought of by many people both near and far. Our prayer is that all of you will find comfort in knowing how awesome he was and how well he lived his life! To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord! He is resting ever so well. May the Lord strengthen all of you and guide you through the difficult days ahead! And we will continue to pray for all of you without ceasing. God bless!
July 5, 2015
Nancy Rogers
Stevie, Krisha, Roger, Michelle and children. I was so sad and upset when I heard what happened to Jason. We had a "ballpark family" for about 12 years and you get to know the families and children with an unspoken bond. I truly loved Jason and the fine, kind, young man that he was. We have so many good memories to hold on to. You should be so proud of his heroism to save other lives. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. I will be happy to help with any service you might have here in his memory. Nancy 966-4104
July 4, 2015
To Jason's Family, You don't know me but my daughter worked with Jason at Val-Fit. As I watched her get married yesterday, my thoughts kept going to Jason and his heroic action in protecting all the Val-Fit employees there that awful day. To Jason's parents, thank you for raising such a courageous and good man. Having lost my son 3 years ago, I am so sorry that you are suffering the tragic loss of a child. Please know that my heart is with you. To Jason's wife and children, please know that many people unknown to you and to Jason have been directly affected by his life and death. Children, always know that your Dad is a Hero to me and to many others. Jane Thomas, Houston
July 4, 2015
You will always be missed and forever remembered. You were the best! Love, Dad
July 2, 2015
Jim and Brenda Graves
Dear Michelle, you don't know us but we are Roger's neighbors. We are heart broken over the loss of Jason and our thoughts and prayers go out to you, your children, Roger and your entire family. We are praying for peace and understanding. Jim and Brenda Graves from Huntsville, AL.
July 2, 2015
We are praying for your family.
Paula and Curtis Thompson
Rachel (Thompson) and Robert Rolston
July 2, 2015
Linda and Tom Carey
We remember when Jason was a baby and his father, Roger, was with the Harbert Joint Equitable Venture that developed Riverchase. We still live in the neighborhood and think of Roger often. We send prayers for strength to all of you in this very difficult time.What a wonderful young man Jason became.
Linda and Tom Carey
July 1, 2015
We send our deepest condolences and promise continued prayers.
Lee and Jan Holland (Tim's parents)
July 1, 2015
Tami White
My dear friend MiChelle, There are angels surrounding you and your children right now. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
June 30, 2015
Stevie and Krisha, we are grieving with you.
Lisa Worley and Sarah Craycroft
June 30, 2015
Gloria And James Reese
Stevie, Roger, Krisha, Michelle and kids,
We are keeping you guys in our thoughts and prayers. What a sweet and fine young man Jason was. We pretty much watched him grow up in Hoover. He and Stan had fun playing together in our front yard, throwing the football around. Hold on to your memories, you all will be reunited with Jason one day. I pray for God to keep his loving arms around you during this very sad time. If you need us Stevie, don't hesitate to call.
June 30, 2015
Ken & Gina Johnson
Roger, we are so sorry for your loss. We are praying for strength and comfort for you and your family during this difficult time.
June 30, 2015
Kim Hooper
My heart is heavy with sympathy. The entire family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss.
June 29, 2015
Linda Johnson
Roger you and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers since hearing of this horrible tragedy.May God bless and comfort you all as you go thru this difficult time
June 29, 2015
Vicki Blair
Dear Yanko Family, My prayers are with you all at this very sad time. I cannot imagine what you are going through, but I do pray you find comfort in knowing many are praying for you. I pray you feel God's peace and love surrounding you. I wish I had found this web site earlier as I would have attended the visitation and prayer service on Monday. If you do not have a church here in Kingwood for support, the Kingwood First Baptist Family would love to love on you and your family.
Sincerely,
Vicki Blair
June 29, 2015
Robert and Sarah Goodwin
Sending our prayers and condolences during this difficult time. Jason was loved by so many and will truly be missed.
June 28, 2015
Rebecca LeGrone Walters
Please know that I am praying for your entire family. I grew up living in Hoover, AL in the Woodmeadow subdivision where Jason and his family lived. I remember him as a child and we played together in the neighborhood. Looking at these pics brought back memories of Jason when we were all younger. Our God is an awesome God and I pray that He will guide you through these hard times.
Praying for all of you!
June 28, 2015
Paulette Pearson
Jason was one of my favorite students at W A Berry High School. What a perfect gentleman and dear sweet person. He will be missed by all his many, many friends in Hoover, Alabama. My love and sympathy to his wonderful family and my dear, precious friend, Stevie, who adored her son.
Paulette Pearson
Former counselor WA Berry High School
Hoover, Alabama
June 28, 2015
Susan Hiebert
My thoughts and prayers are with the family today and in the coming days as you mourn the tragic loss of such a fine man. Jason was one of the sweetest, funniest, most selfless people I have ever known. May God comfort the family during this difficult time.
June 28, 2015
Grandma Means
Everyone has expressed such beautiful sentiments, I just want to add my love. I wish I could be there to give hugs to you all! Michelle I am so proud of you, your strength and love are amazing. I love you all!!!!
June 28, 2015
Jenni Kwater Milner
I haven't seen Jason since we we were teenagers but I remember him fondly as a sweet boy who was a good friend. My hearts breaks for you having to endure this horrible tragedy. Roger, Stevie, Krisha and Michelle, I hope you find comfort and peace telling stories of Jason and what made him so special so he will continue to live through his children. You and your families are in our prayers.
June 28, 2015
Rick and Patti Bergholtz
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. We have a priest in Rome that is offering his Mass for the Yanko family.
June 27, 2015
Kathy and Mike Thorsen
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the Yanko family.
June 27, 2015
Nancy Youngblood
Stevie, Roger, Krisha, and Michele, we loved Jason so. I have so many thoughts of Blair and Jason, growing up since 5 years old. I have a special place in my heart for Jason. He was like another son to me through the years. We always enjoyed Jason whether he was at our home or at the lake. Lot of good times!!
The loss of Jason will increase our appreciation for life and the zest for Christ's return would not be possible had we not walked through the valley of grief. It reminds us that the world is not our home; that we are just passing through.
Trusting in God's enduring love is the only thing that will sustain us in the tough times of grief though we may not understand.
June 27, 2015
Sam, Neena, Shane, Sheena Oommen
Dear Michelle,
We are very sorry to hear the loss of Jason. Our words cannot express how deeply sorry to hear about this tragedy. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your kids as you go through this difficult times
June 27, 2015
Fred Barnhill
Stevie, Roger, Krisha, Michelle, Joseph, Callie, and Austin, please accept my condolences. I will always hold in my heart memories of Jason. He was always friendly and happy. May he rest in peace. God bless all of you.
June 27, 2015
Eric Koch
I worked with Jason for several years at Woodgrain in Montevallo. Jason was one of the nicest and most generous people I've ever known. The entire family is in my prayers.
June 27, 2015
Joyce Yeager
Stevie, I grieve with you . Roger, Krisha, Michelle & children, please accept my deepest condolences. Jason & Russ grew up together . I will always hold in my heart the memories of those 2 boys & their laughter. We will all laugh together again in Paradise. I know Jason & Robbie are saving us a place at the Father's table. God bless you. - Joyce -
June 27, 2015
We are lost for words, our hearts go out to you and your family.
From the Linda Eirvin Dyonzak family, (Sister of Patti Eirvin Bergholtz)
June 27, 2015
Art and Mary headley
Our prayers are lifted up for the Yanko family for God's healing and comfort. Much love from the Headley Family
June 27, 2015
stevie,
words cannot express the deep sorrow for this tragedy. i continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. you raised a special young man that i'm sure you are very proud of. jason will always be remembered!
i love you.
gale deadrick
June 27, 2015
Philip Povolish
So sorry for your loss out prayers are with you and your family.Philip and Carol Povolish cousin
June 27, 2015
Barb Conway
Stevie, Michelle & family,
Our heart & prayers pour your way! Thank you for sharing all the photos & reminding people of the wonderful man that Jason is. Words can not express how sorry we are that this tragedy happened. Jason's smile & kindness will forever live on in our hearts! Peace, prayers & love are sent to you all! The Tim & Barb Conway Family
June 27, 2015
Lynda Powell
Dear Stevie, my first thoughts are for you even though I know everyone is in so much pain. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you. I have been through such a loss. You will make it though it feels like the world should stop. My heart goes out to all of you. What a wonderful person you two raised.
June 27, 2015
Marcus Mathews
Michelle, Words cannot explain what I am feeling for you and your family right now. This has brought me to my knees this week, and I am truly sorry for your loss of such a wonderful spirit. Jason was part of my childhood that will live on forever, not just for what he did on the football field at the time, but his ways, his nature, and the way he lived his life. I am truly blessed to say I knew Jason, he will forever be a part of my family and our tradition.
June 27, 2015
brandi ferrara
Our hearts go out to you and your family.
June 27, 2015
Brandi Ferrara
You and your whole family are in our thoughts and prayers. Always.
June 27, 2015
Janet Moseley
I am so very sorry for your loss. I am devastated to learn of Jason's passing. I worked with Jason for the past 4 years. He was such a nice person, and he had a smile that lit up each time I saw him. Jason will be truly missed by all who knew him.
June 27, 2015
Marlene Means-Hunt
To the man I loved and never knew. I love you . I have loved you since the first picture I saw that showed the love in your eyes. I have loved you because Michelle loved you. I have loved you for loving your children. I love you now for the service you have given others and for the heroic way you died. I love you now because you are my family, forever, through all eternity.
June 27, 2015
Julie Wallace-Brookhart
Michelle,
You and your children are in my heart and prayers.
June 27, 2015
Dear Michelle, We are very sorry for the loss of our beloved Jason.May God give you the strength and comfort to face this difficult situation.Our thoughts and prayers are always with you and your family.
Roy & Joslin (Lawrenceville GA)
June 27, 2015
Rob Compton
The Compton Family is praying for your family. We are so sorry for your loss, but thankful for his bravery and purpose in life. I am so thankful he knew the Father and at peace with him. He will not leave you!
June 27, 2015
Barbara heinsch
Michelle, Mike and I are deeply saddened by your loss. We hope that you and your chilren find a way to make it through this difficult time. We love you. Barbara and Mike
June 27, 2015
Jo Anne & Val Schiller
Michelle, Joseph, Callie and Austin: We share in your sorrow and pain for the loss of your wonderful, loving, brave husband and father. May God bless you and comfort you through your unbelievable, heartbreaking loss. We will keep you in our hearts and prayers always.
June 27, 2015
Jim Povolish Jr
Prayers and sympathy to all in this difficult time.
June 26, 2015
Blair Youngblood
Jason has trueley graced me with a lifetime of friendship and brotherly love, I can only wish he was able to stay longer, as in his leaving we are left with tremendous devastation that comes from losing such a wonderful man . I am so fortunate to have known such goodness in a person and his contribution to the world is amazing !! I must learn from this man that has brought so much unprecedented joy showing his Grace and Happiness to all that he touched. I know his love for his wife Michelle, sons Austin and Joesph, his daughter Cali , sister Krish , mother Stevie and father Rodger is filling the heavens , Godbless the Yanko family and Jason I will talk to you in my prayers buddy I love all of you so much.
June 26, 2015
Brad Hamilton
I can't express in words how sorry I am for the Yanko family. In the short time that I got to know them, they made such a huge impact on me. The example of love and overwhelming selflessness that Michelle and Jason set as parents is one that I hope to follow myself one day. There won't be a day that goes by that I don't have this family in my thoughts, and your friends in Georgia love you guys dearly. Rest in peace, Jason. You did an amazing job with your time in this life, and I know you'll see your precious family again.
June 26, 2015
Your Ivory
Jason spread your wings and fly so that no matter where Michelle and the kids reside you are always near by. Michelle stay strong and committed so that no matter the obstacle you will beat it. Cali, Joesph, & Austin love mommy and behave and do your best to get great grades. Chance protect your humans at all cost, love them, kiss them, & just be the best dog.
I know this so dry and corny but I wanted to make you smile even if for a moment. If you need me I am here.
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