Gary L. Yantis, beloved husband, father, grandfather brother and uncle, passed away suddenly on Sunday, November 27th, at his home.

He was born in Kansas City, KS on May 12th, 1947, the firstborn of A. Norvell & Doris G. (Cathey) Yantis. Gary lived his entire life in the Johnson County area, primarily Shawnee. His maternal ancestors were among the founders of the city of Shawnee. He was a lifelong member of Shawnee United Methodist Church.

Gary graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1965 and Central Institute of Technology with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1967. After employment at Bendix, King Radio (now Allied Signal) and Palatine Sales, Gary founded his own electronics sales representative firm, Midtec Associates, in 1977. Midtec grew to be the largest manufacturers’ representative firm in its territory and one of the premier firms in the nation. Gary instituted changes in sales techniques and office management that became the industry standards and was frequently asked to present workshops nationwide on implementing these changes. He was recognized as one of the top reps in his field and enjoyed friendships throughout the world in electronics sales and manufacturing. Gary enjoyed entrepreneurship and began several other companies, brought them to success, and which he then sold to others in the industry.

He married Doris M. Moore Yantis on May 19th, 1973 in Pleasanton KS. They made their home in Johnson County and celebrated 43 years of marriage in May. Quoting Gary, he was the proud father of two wonderful children, Steven W. Yantis, Lawrence, KS and Christine M. Yantis Hargrove of Topeka, KS. He treasured his son-in-law, Andrew B. Hargrove. And, again quoting Gary, he was the proud grandfather of four fabulous grandchildren- Junia, Gideon, Theodore and Phoebe Hargrove. He also always said that he had a wonderful wife. Many happy hours were spent traveling, hiking and skiing in Colorado with his children, attending his grandchildren’s many school and sporting events and relaxing with his dog Blaze.

His children and grandchildren note that at any Dad or Granddad event, they always had to share him with the other children. His way of quietly but insistently including those on the sidelines has shaped the character of his decedents for generations to come.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, James Moore. He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren. Also by his brother and sister-in-law, George and Jackie Yantis, Overland Park; their son Joseph Yantis and his family. Also his sister and brother-in-law, Susan and John Bolton, Overland Park and their children, Jen & Ben Tryon, Amanda & James Tomlin and Thomas Bolton. His brothers-in-law, Richard and Barbara Moore, McKinney TX, and their children, Susan & Sean Brennan and Sally & Ron Busse and their children; Robert Moore, Bentonville AR and his children, Rob & Casey Moore, Traci Moore, JoAnne Moore and Tobi Moore and their children and his sister-in-law; Deanna Moore, Springdale AR, and her children, Rodger Moore, Brian and Melonie Moore and Monte and Shelley Moore and their children also survive him and have many happy and fond memories of him.

Gary was introduced to amateur radio by a good friend when he was ten and was a life-long ham, originally K0BHM and later changed to W0TM. He took great pride in being a member of the DXCC#1 club, meaning he had worked or talked to someone in every country in the world as recognized by the ARRL.

He dealt with chronic Lyme Disease for longer than 20 years. Because of his experiences he became very knowledgeable about this disease and strove to help others deal with it. Lyme disease weakened his immune system and he also developed Morgellon’s Syndrome the last 3-4 years of his life. He wanted it known that he would “wish this for no one:”.

All who knew Gary agreed that he was “a good man”. He was a man of integrity (a “handshake contract” man), loyal, faithful, brilliant, loving and caring. He made an impact on all who worked for and with him (they all became second families) and enjoyed many friendships. He will be missed by all.

Visitation and Services

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 1st, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Amos Funeral Home, Shawnee. The service will be held at Shawnee United Methodist Church on Friday, December 2nd, at 10 am with burial to follow at Shawnee Cemetery. A luncheon following will be served at Shawnee United Methodist Church.

Memorial Contributions

Memorials are suggested to Johnson County Young Matrons Scholarship Fund. Please send any donations to 11700 W 148th St., Overland Park, KS 66221-9654.