James Martin "Jim" Yencer

James Martin Yencer, 78, of Des Moines’ East Side, passed away on March 6, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals surrounded by his family.

Born on July 2, 1947, to Alvina (Severson) and Forest Yencer, Jim was a proud lifelong East Sider whose deep roots in the community shaped him into a loyal, grounded, and dedicated man. He graduated from East High School in 1965, then attended Drake University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1969 and a graduate degree in Elementary Administration in 1973. While in college, he competed on the golf teams at both Grandview and Drake.

Jim enjoyed a long career with the City of Des Moines Public Works Department from 1974 until his retirement in 2005. His true passion, however, was sports. In 1964 he won the City High School Tournament, a memory he treasured always. He played countless rounds of golf at Grandview Golf Course, competed in tournaments, and enjoyed softball and basketball. For more than twenty years he coached fast-pitch softball for five different teams. He took special delight in watching his children and grandchildren succeed in their own athletic endeavors.

In 1968 Jim met the love of his life, Patty Opperman. They married in 1970 and built a family that became his greatest source of pride. He is survived by his children, Tricia (Mike) and Kyle (Kris), and seven cherished grandchildren: Nick Yencer, Nate Yencer, Josh Yencer, Jack Yencer, Carli Bennett, Max Miller, and Ty Miller. He is also survived by his step-brother, Steve (Pam) Johnson. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Patty Yencer, his father Forest Yencer, his mother Alvina Johnson, and his stepfather Carol Johnson.

After retirement, Jim and Patty enjoyed traveling together, visiting all the Hawaiian Islands as well as Mexico and the Bahamas. He also found enjoyment betting on horses at Prairie Meadows. Throughout his life he remained deeply grateful for his friends and fellow East Siders, treasuring his involvement with the East High Alumni Association.