Nathan Lee Yeager, age 35, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on July 12, 2026.

His name, Nathan, meaning "Gift from God," was an accurate reflection of the blessing he was to those around him. In the days following his passing, the countless stories shared, memories remembered, and kindness shown by others further revealed that he was not only our gift, but a gift to so many. His life touched more people than we could have ever fully realized, and his memory will continue through the lives he impacted.

Nathan was born on October 25, 1990, to Kenneth and Lauren Yeager. Despite 5-year-old Nathan's initial protests and attempts to sabotage the house showings, he and his family moved to the Riss Valley neighborhood in 1996, where he built friendships that became some of the most meaningful relationships of his life. What began as neighborhood sports games, building cardboard forts in basements, and finding ways to earn a few dollars by shoveling driveways became lifelong bonds that remained strong decades later. The fact that so many of those friendships lasted for more than 30 years speaks to the kind of person Nathan was. He was someone who cared for people deeply, showed up for those he loved, and created connections with his kindness that lasted a lifetime.

Nathan loved sports from an early age, and that passion continued throughout his high school years at Park Hill South High School. There, he graduated in 2009, where basketball and golf became some of the activities that remained important to him. He later attended the University of Missouri, graduating in 2014, before beginning the next chapter of his life. During his adult years, Nathan found joy in the simple moments that made life special. He loved weekly trips to the bowling alley, occasional casino outings with his Grammy, watching Chiefs games, enjoying beers at local establishments, doing scratch-offs with Derek, random adventures with Dave, his honorary brother, whose friendship went far beyond that of a best friend, and countless other simple moments with the people he loved.

He is survived by his parents, Kenneth and Lauren Yeager, who were his constant supporters; his brother, Derek Yeager, who was not only a brother but also a teammate and built-in best friend; his sister, Leah Baker, who Nathan described as someone he could always lean on; his brother-in-law, Thomas Baker; and his nephew, Everett Baker. Nathan was incredibly proud to become "Uncle Nate" just nine months ago, and how much that role meant to him was evident to everyone around him. He is also survived by his grandmothers, Dorothy Yeager (Grammy) and Carol Carpino (Nana); aunt, Lorinda Hackett; uncles, Brent Hackett and Joseph Yeager; countless cousins and loving extended family members, and friends who miss him dearly.

The family invites everyone whose life was touched by Nathan, or who wishes to honor his memory and support his family, to celebrate his life on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 3:00-5:00pm at Gladstone Bowl, where he spent many Sunday mornings. Rather than a traditional service, the family will be hosting a bowling tournament for those who would like to participate. Nathan would have wanted nothing more than for family and friends to spend time together doing something he loved. Those who prefer not to bowl are warmly invited to gather, share stories, laugh together, and raise a glass in his honor. Whether you knew Nathan personally or are joining to support his family and friends, your presence is sincerely appreciated. Additional event details will be available through a Facebook event shared on Nathan's Facebook page or by reaching out to a member of the family.

In honor of the many friendships that shaped Nathan's life, his honorary pallbearers are Derek Yeager, David Sieker, Jesse Minnick, Jon Bergren, John Hughes, Colby Hughes, Brooks McCormack, Nathan Burgess, and Thomas Baker. These men represent the lifelong friendships and brotherhood that meant so much to Nathan. Just as Nathan, a longtime fan of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, would have loved, "the gang's all here."

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to your local humane society or animal shelter in Nathan's memory. Nathan's compassion extended far beyond the people in his life. His love for animals was evident throughout the years, from the family pets he cherished to the stray cats he fed and cared for in his neighborhood. He even gave many of them names, including The Enforcer, Doofus, and Blue, names that reflected Nathan's sense of humor and the care and attention he gave each of them. Helping provide care to animals in need is a meaningful way to honor his memory.

Nathan's life was far too short, but the love he gave and the memories created will last a lifetime. He was a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a cousin, an uncle, a friend, and a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Nathan had a rare ability to make people feel like they belonged. He had a genuine desire to make others feel included, cared for, and loved. He valued conversations and had a way of making people feel truly appreciated. If there is a lesson we can carry from Nathan's life, it is to do the same: slow down, make time for others, and remind the people around us that they matter. His legacy will live on not only through the stories we share, but through the kindness that we continue to show because of the example he set.

Nathan, you were so important to this world. We love you, "Brotha".

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com