Brandt E Yocom

Brandt E. Yocom

Aug. 14, 1952 - April 15, 2024

Brandt Edward Yocom was born August 14, 1952, to Curt Sr. and Shirlie Yocom at Yocom Hospital in Chariton, Iowa, where he was delivered by his beloved grandparents, Dr. Albert L. and Jennie Curtis Yocom. He passed away on April 15, 2024, surrounded by his family, at the age of 71.

Brandt grew up spending time–and causing trouble–in his grandparents’ hospital and his parents’ two restaurants: one in Iowa City and the other at the Iowa State Fair. He was a three-sport letter winner at Chariton High School, where he would coach later in life. Brandt was all-state in football in 1970 and a member of the two-mile relay team that won the state championship. He graduated from CHS in 1971 and regularly kept in contact with his graduating class. 

He went on to play football at the University of Iowa, where he graduated in 1976. Together with playing tight end for the Hawkeyes, he won the Daily Iowan Spirit Award, was Academic All-Big Ten, and served as team captain in 1975. His time at Iowa was not just about football; it was about embracing life with gusto and leaving a positive impact wherever he went. Go Hawks! #80

After college, he returned to his roots in Lucas County and farmed for the next several decades (the cows were out all the time). Brandt's journey through life was guided by his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, a strong sense of community pride, cherished friendships, and his contagious laugh. He had a knack for knowing your name, your family history, and everything in between. His antics and jokes were legendary, and his ability to find humor in any situation endeared him to all.

Later in life, his indelible mark on the community deepened when he took up residence as the Chariton, Lucas County, and Iowa Hawkeyes honorary historian, where he shared his deep knowledge and love for all things Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, many classmates and fellow teammates, including three of “The Magnificent Seven” Iowa Hawkeyes. Brandt kept track of those who had gone before him, cherishing their memories and the special moments they shared.

Brandt is survived by his two children, Madelyn Yocom Meyers (John) of Des Moines, IA, Blake Yocom of Russell, IA & Chicago, IL; his grandchildren, Adair, Veda, and Ames Meyers; his brother Curt Jr. (Kate) Yocom and their children Tess, Taylor, and Claire Yocom, and a community of lifelong friends.

Though he may be gone, his laughter will echo through the fields of southern Iowa and the streets of Iowa City for generations to come.

A celebration of Brandt’s life, "Laughing Beats Crying" will be held Friday, April 26 with "Kick-off" at 2:30 p.m. at the Due to storms and rain services will be held at Johnson Auditiorium. A “Pep Rally” Reception will follow at Lake View Golf & Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Chariton Community Development Corporation (“CCDC”; 501(c)(3)) Foundation/Yocom Park Memorial Fund in honor of Brandt's dedication to his community. Internment in the Chariton Cemetery alongside his parents and grandparents.

Here is a link for donations and memorials https://www.gofundme.com/f/yocom-park-memorial-fund

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