James "Jd" "Papaw" Yanchak

James Donald “JD” Yanchak, age 83, of Brookshire, Texas passed away February 29, 2024.

JD was born May 27, 1940, in Anderson, Texas, to Elizabeth Yanchak. He grew up in the Anderson and Navasota area before moving to Houston, where he attended Jeff Davis High School. In his early life, he was a truck driver for many years. He then went on to open James’ Auto Supply in Houston. After years of his auto parts business, he then decided to venture into opening Rite Automotive in Cypress. Most recently, his time was spent on the ranch tending to his cattle, checking the weather, and his pride and joy, JD’s Custom Hay Bailing. He had many loyal customers that depended on his quality work each year. JD enjoyed planting his vegetable garden and then sharing all his produce with his friends and family. He loved the sport of fishing when he could. He was also an avid deer hunter and loved spending time with his family and hosting events for all his friends. His tv was always turned to football or his beloved Astros. Every morning, he had plans to eat breakfast with all his friends.

JD served faithfully and without any hesitation to the people of his community and was an active member of the Christ Lutheran Church of Pattison for 31 years, where he also served as an Elder. One of Christ Lutheran’s biggest events was the German Sausage Dinner; this was one of his favorite fundraisers to take part in and he gave his all to ensure success. He was on the Royal FFA Advisory committee for 23 years, which he loved to volunteer his time towards. He truly lived the words of the FFA Creed: Not of Words but of Deeds.

He is survived by his daughter: Debbie Baker and husband, Danny, of Pattison; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and girlfriend of nine years--Jackie Craver.

He was preceded in death by his wife: Gloria Jean Styers Yanchak; son: Dennis James Yanchak Sr.; and mother: Elizabeth Yanchak Massey.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Jason Baker, Jacob Baker, Michael Baker Jr., Danny Baker Jr., Austin Rivette, DJ Yanchak, Dustin Yanchak, and Jason Guidry. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Brad Munsell, Piggy Gassner, Kurt Klausmeyer, Scott Hartman, Wayne Kalsvick, Bill Gilliam, Charlie Wilson, Gary Woods, Goose Gostecnik, Darren Fraysur, Frank Fojtik, Ron Evans, Brady Bussey, and Joey Cottle.

Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to:

Christ Lutheran Church
PO Box 507
Pattison, TX 77466


Pattison Area Volunteer Fire Dept.
PO Box 442
Pattison, TX 77466


Royal FFA Advisory Committee
PO Box 816
Pattison, TX 77466