Michael James Yust
Obituary

Michael “Mike” J. Yust was born on May 24, 1952, in Seattle, Washington, and passed away on September 21, 2026, in Kirkland, Washington, after a battle with cancer.

Mike was a writer, musician, nature enthusiast, and lifelong Van Gogh fanatic. He loved spending time with his family and was a supportive husband and father. He was actively involved in the lives of his grandchildren, whom he considered one of his greatest joys. He was also close to his parents and brother and treasured the memories he made with his aunts, uncle, and cousins while growing up. Mike had many friends and close coworkers who were important to him.

Mike's love of nature was a meaningful part of his life. He enjoyed working at Millcreek Country Club because it gave him the opportunity to be outside every day. He took great joy in watching the wildlife throughout the changing seasons, from new ducklings in the spring to larger animals such as black bears passing through the course. He made friends with the crows and shared his lunch with them, becoming especially proud when the adult birds brought their young to meet him. He watched the area mature and change over the years, from a new housing development with a country club to an established neighborhood and golf course that provided a safe habitat for diverse wildlife.

Mike's work included irrigation and greens maintenance at Millcreek Country Club, owning Yard Care Extraordinaire, and working as a truck driver at the University of Washington.

Those who knew Mike described him as loving, funny, dependable, and a family man. His brother Rick remembered him as a loving and patient big brother who was always there as a guide and protector. His former wife, Sheryl, remembered his kindness, humor, intelligence, and thoughtfulness, as well as the love he showed to his children and grandchildren. His daughter Bonnie remembers the sound of his voice singing, his coffee on the stove, the changing seasons, and the hugs and kisses he gave her. His daughter Jackie shared an excerpt from one of Mike's poems, “rest and gravity,” reflecting on the message of love and acceptance he wanted to leave behind.

More than anything, Mike wanted to be remembered as a loving and proud Papa. He loved all of his grandchildren and considered it a true blessing to be an active part of their lives. They were his greatest joy.

Mike is survived by his brother, Rick Yust; ex-wife, Sheryl Laverdure; daughters, Bonnie Ancheta, Delores Yust, and Jackie Yust; sons-in-law, Shaun Mock and Charles Center; and grandchildren, Nick McNairy, Catherine Mock, Nina Yust, and Holden da Silva.

He was preceded in death by his father, James (Jim) L. Yust, and his mother, Delores A. Yust.

Family and friends will gather for a private evening of remembrance to celebrate and share memories of the life Mike lived so fully.

Mike's love for his family was always present. He will be deeply missed and will continue to be remembered through the people he loved, the memories he created, his music, his writing, and the many lives he touched.