Michael Paul Yager

TOWN OF COLUMBIA – Michael Paul Yager, age 43, a lifelong area resident, passed away unexpectedly of heart complications on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in the privacy and comfort of his home.

Born in Cooperstown on July 21, 1981, Michael is the son of Steven D. Yager and the late Cheryl (Bard) Yager. He was raised locally and educated in Richfield Springs schools. At one time, Michael was married to Shelli Yager, the mother of his sons; although separated, they maintained a close friendship and co-parented their boys together.

Mike was always keeping himself busy and through the years he worked for Mohawk Valley Recycling and Vince’s U-Pull It Auto Parts in Marcy. He was a skilled mechanic and could often be found tinkering with vehicles and just generally helping people in times of need. He was a gentle giant who had a big heart, and his presence will be dearly missed by those he leaves behind.

Survivors include his father, Steven Yager; his sons, Brayden Yager and Logan Yager; their mother, Shelli Yager; his brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Shannon Yager; his nieces and nephews, Kyle Yager, Gage Yager, Jacob Yager, Serena Baumann, Jocelynn Elthorp and Collin Baumann; along with many friends, cousins and extended family members. He was predeceased by is mother, Cheryl Ann Yager, on April 22, 2022.

In keeping with the Yager family’s wishes, there will be no public funeral services for Mike. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate funeral directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com .