Obituary of Alan Gene Yocom

Avoca - Alan Gene Yocom, 62, of Avoca, Indiana, passed away on May 22, 2018 in Bedford, Indiana.

Born in Greencastle, Indiana, on March 9, 1956, Alan was raised by Reverend W.J. Yocom Sr. and Vera Mae (Follett) Yocom. He married Margaret Ann Verbais of Springfield, Illinois, in 1978, and the couple had four children. In 1986, the family moved to Colorado, where Alan worked for AT&T until an on-the-job injury resulted in a permanent disability. In 2006, Alan relocated to his home state of Indiana.

An avid animal lover, Alan could never turn away an animal in need, including many dogs (specifically Norwegian elkhounds), cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, and even mice throughout his 62 years of life. He could often be found sitting in a favorite outdoor spot, listening to music and watching the stars, trying to pinpoint particular planets and constellations. His friends and family will miss his sense of humor and whimsy, both of which always seemed to be in full supply.

Alan is survived by his children: Sarah Rumple of Denver, Colorado; Kate Yocom (Joe Vignali) of Springfield, Illinois; Emily Yocom (Michael Peake) of Denver, Colorado; and Matthew Yocom of Avoca, Indiana; his grandchildren: Henry Rumple and Brooklyn Vignali; a sister: Susan L. Grubb; and multiple nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents: Wilbur and Vera; and three siblings: Marilyn, Kay, and Joe.

An informal gathering to celebrate Alan’s life will be held at one of his favorite restaurants, Mother Bear’s Pizza Campus (1428 E. 3^rd St., Bloomington, Indiana), on Saturday, May 26, from 3 to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Bloomington Animal Care and Control (3410 S. Walnut St., Bloomington, Indiana, 47401) in Alan’s memory. Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.