David Henry Yocum, 75, passed away at home in Boalsburg, PA on September 5, 2025, with his dedicated wife, Sally, by his side. Born September 16, 1949 in Huntington, PA to Evelyn and John Yocum, Dave’s life was marked by fun, creativity, humor, teaching, and helping others.
Scouting and 4-H were significant aspects of Dave’s childhood. In 4-H, his projects included dairy cattle and bacon hogs. An Eagle Scout at the age of 13, Dave went on to work summers at Seven Mountains Scout Camp and to serve as Lodge Vice Chief, as well as Cubmaster for his son’s Cub Pack. He was a member of the Order of the Arrow (Scouting’s national honor society) and was bestowed the Vigil Honor– the society’s highest recognition– for his distinguished contributions.
Musically, Dave played drums throughout school, as well as with his high school music teacher’s dance band at professional gigs. He later formed a band with colleagues and performed for weddings and other events in the 1970s and 1980s. Dave continued to jam at home for decades afterward.
Dave’s passion for art was evident early on in the metal yard sculptures he made for the childhood family farm, and continued into adulthood with many paintings and other mediums. After earning his Bachelor’s (and later, Masters equivalent) degree in Art Education from Penn State, Dave shaped young creative hands as an art teacher at Bellefonte Area Middle School with a blend of fun, creativity, and inspiration for over 34 years. His influence extended beyond the classroom as an advisor to the Art, Yearbook, Ski, and Archery Clubs, to which he dedicated countless hours and encouraged students to discover and pursue their passions.
Dave found great joy in outdoor activities including skiing (water, downhill, cross country), hunting, fishing, boating, and competitive shooting.
Dave was always ready to lend a helping hand to his neighbors, embodying kindness and community spirit. An active member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Boalsburg, Dave served as treasurer for 13 years, in addition to many years tending to lawn care, the sound system, preserving the historic stained glass windows, and other maintenance.
Family was a source of much happiness for Dave. He leaves behind his wife Sally; his son Douglas; and his daughter Annie, son-in-law Thai Le, and grandson Everett Le. Dave was a brother to Harold “Hal” Yocum and his wife Mary Jo, and James “Jim” Yocum and his wife Nan. He was predeceased by his brother John “Jack” Yocum, Jr., and is fondly remembered by Jack’s wife, Carole.
Generous, fun, handy, and creative, Dave is deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ. https://stjohnsucc.info/