Stephen Michael Yager, 77, of Houghton Lake passed away on Tuesday February 17, 2026 at his home with his loving wife by his side.
Stephen was born on June 30, 1948 in Hammond, Indiana to Stephen and Emilie (Lesniak) Yager. He grew up in the Chicago area where he graduated from Chicago Vocational High School. Steve served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. After his time in the service of his country, Steve took up the trade of a sheet metal fabricator. He was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local 73 in Chicago and was proud of his many years of excellent craftsmanship as a “Tin Knocker” in the Chicago area. On May 6, 1972 in Chicago, Illinois Steve was married to Darlene Ann Howland. The Couple moved from Chicago to Houghton Lake 16 years ago. Steve enjoyed hunting and was an avid fishermen, known to many on facebook as the “Houghton Lake Fisherman”.
Surviving Mr. Yager are his loving wife of 53 years, Darlene Yager of Houghton Lake; son, Jason (Michelle) Yager of Lombard, IL; daughter, Jessica (Wayne) Pavey of Hanna, IN; six grandchildren, Austin(Tobias) Hilvey, Spencer Pavey, Brayden Pavey, Lanine Pavey, Iriedae Crouch, and Jake Jozwiak. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Andrea Olchana.
At the request of Stephen Michael Yager there will be no services. Memorial contributions in memory of Stephen are asked to be directed to The Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center,112 S 4th St, Roscommon, MI 48653, Layman’s on the Lake Junior Angler’s Club, 6560 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI 48629, or the Artesia Youth Park, 1800 S Loxley Rd, Houghton Lake, MI 48629. Christler Funeral Home, Houghton Lake Chapel is serving the family. Condolences can be sent to the family online at www.christler-holdship.com