David C. Yinger

David C. Yinger – October 6 1926-July 18 2023

A Remembrance

David Clarence Yinger passed peacefully on July 18 (age 96) at the Casey House in Rockville MD. David spent his final years at Alfred House I in Rockville, where staff provided loving care as Alzheimer’s worsened.

David Clarence Yinger was born October 6, 1926 in Frederick, Maryland, to Lewis and Fannie Ray Yinger. The family lived a short time in Washington, D.C. until his mother became sick and they moved back to Frederick. David's parents got divorced and in 1937, David's mother passed away when he was 11 years old.  He then went to live with his father in Brookeville MD. David was a student at Sherwood Elementary School, but when David was 13 his father pulled him out of school and put him to work in his bricklaying business. David worked for his father as a laborer, never laying one brick but he watched closely and learned the skills of his father. 

When he was 18, David joined the U.S. Army during WWII. He was on his way to Japan when the war ended.  He was sent to Guam to finish out his duty. He served 18 months in Guam as a cook and baker known for his fresh coconut pies.  After he was discharged, he met Evelyn Saylor in Olney in March 1947 during a sledding party with friends. David and Evelyn got married on February 28, 1948. David started his own bricklaying business in 1951. David spent many years building hundreds of brick homes, fireplaces, patios, chimneys. They had four children: Peggy, David, Gregory, Jeffrey (deceased), and 2 grandchildren: Scott Garrish and Shyanne Yinger. David and Evelyn loved the Town of Brookeville where they raised their children and lived for the rest of their lives. The Yingers were always having parties and picnics, using the swimming pool, going to antique car shows. His beloved Evelyn died in 2006. 

David leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved very much. His sisters and brother have gone many years before. He loved his uncles.  David loved Brookeville, his Legion, antique cars. He loved auctions. David loved to collect 'stuff' to display in the house and his fabled museum. A connoisseur of marbles, he displayed a huge collection that delighted visiting children of all ages.   He had so many friends and loved spending time with them all. He loved singing and playing music in his 'hillbilly band' The Brookeville Hillbillies, where he played the bass and sang in his beautiful tenor voice. He loved to do things for the betterment of his hometown, always helping at the Hospital Supper, joining in the parades, frequently sitting with friends at “senior MacDonalds” breakfasts. 

David was a life-member of the American Legion (Norman Price Post 68) who recently celebrated his 73rd anniversary there.  Over the years he served as Commander and as Sargent of Arms, reflecting his deep commitment to the Legion.   He belonged to the Sugarloaf Mountain Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America for many years. David loved to drive his 1964 1/2 gold color Mustang convertible, chauffeured in later years by honored friends.

David was a very cool guy, always had a joke or a story to tell from his long life.

The family is celebrating David's life on Saturday, August 5 with a memorial at 11:30 AM in the Salem United Methodist Church, 12 High Street, Brookeville MD, followed by a visit to the gravesite in the Salem Cemetery, and fellowship time with neighbors and friends over light refreshments at the Brookeville Academy (5 High Street, Brookeville) afterward.  Parking is available in the lot behind the church. Cards and notes may be sent c/o 17624 Spielman Road, Fairplay, MD 21733.     Remembrance composed by Peggy (Yinger) Garrish

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