The Village of Elk Rapids is saddened to share the passing of former Village President Joe Yuchasz.

Joe became involved in Village Government when he joined the Downtown Development Authority Board in 1984. Two years later, Joe decided to step up and run for Village President in 1986. He won the election and went on to demonstrate tremendous leadership as president until he stepped away in 2006. Joe oversaw numerous accomplishments throughout his time in Village leadership, including coordinating the Government Center being built in partnership with the Elk Rapids Township and the public restroom installation at Veterans Memorial Beach, among other initiatives.

Joe never stopped his dedication to community service and was an Elk Rapids Rotarian for several years.

Our community was made better thanks to people like Joe who was willing to have an open mind and advocate for positive progress. His legacy will live on as we come together to honor our shared past and plan for our collective future.

Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Elk Rapids Cinema, with service at 7 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church 11 a.m., Monday, Jan. 23, with visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass.

Spring interment will take place in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.

For more information, please go to: https://www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/joseph-joe-yuchasz