Abe Yodler, 89, of Prairie Village, passed away in his home early Saturday morning, Jan. 26, 2019. He was born Oct. 23, 1929, in Kansas City, Missouri. Abe was the oldest of four children. He graduated from Paseo High School. Abe did not attend college and in his own joking words, “I walked in the front door and out the back door of college.” He was a 32nd degree Freemason. Abe spent several years serving in the National Guard.
Abe was 24 years old when his father passed away. Suddenly Abe was left to care for his mother and three younger sisters. Abe’s younger sister, Helen, was in a car accident and passed away at the age of 27. Abe ran the family’s tailor shop business, Yodler’s Fine Men’s Wear, until 1975. Later he owned Western Army Store. Abe initially met his future wife, Evelyn, at the Jewish Community Center. Later Evelyn was at Abe’s store, which is where their relationship blossomed. Evelyn and Abe married and raised four children, three daughters and a son. Abe operated the store until he was no longer physically able to do so at the age of 85.
Abe had very few hobbies — he enjoyed bowling and was active in B’nai Brith. Abe spent his life showing his family love by providing for them. He was the greatest of providers, he went above and beyond, and raised his grandchildren as his own. One of his biggest enjoyments later in life was watching his grandson, Alex Kranzberg, graduate from school and talking about business ideas.
He is survived by his two sisters: Janet Cohen and Gertie Max; three daughters: Jenise Kranzberg, Denise Goldenberg (and husband Mark), and Laurie Goodwin (and husband Steve); and 14 grandchildren: Perry Kranzberg, Alex Kranzberg, Paxton Mitchell, Nicci Goldenberg, Ean Goldenberg, Josh Goldenberg, Michael Yodler (and wife Adina), Danielle Goodwin, Brittany Goodwin, Joey Goodwin, Stephanie Goodwin, Molly Goodwin, Jay Goodwin, Lily Goodwin. Abe’s son, Brian Yodler (2008), and his wife Evelyn Yodler (2009) predeceased him.
Graveside services were expected to take place Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2019, at Mount Carmel Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made at www.louismememorialchapel.com.
Arrangements by The Louis Memorial Chapel, 816-361-5211.