James A. Yeakel, 54, of Kanawha, passed away Monday, April 9, 2001 at the Kanawha Community Home. Jim the son of Duane "Duke" and Virginia (Townsend) Yeakel was born May 31, 1946 in Garner.  Jim lived in Kanawha most his life.  He attended Kanawha Community School and graduated from Kanawha High School in 1964.  Jim entered the Army in 1965, and served his country for two years.  Following, his discharge, Jim returned to Kanawha and was employed by his uncle at Oral's Auto Repair. In 1972, Jim was united in marriage with Janet Jackson at the Kanawha Lutheran Church.  Six years later the couple purchased Oral's Auto Repair, which became Yeakel Garage.  Yeakel Garage has been a part of the Yeakel family since 1923.  Jim ran his business until the summer of 2000 when he became ill. Jim was an avid race fan; he drove, sponsored, and supported the racing industry for many years.  He was also a member of the Kanawha Volunteer Fire Department for 10 years.  Jim enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Jim is survived by his two daughters: Jennifer Eden and her husband, Allen of Clear Lake, and Jamie Yeakel of Clear Lake; two brothers Greg Yeakel and his wife Sue, and their children Gabe, Rowena, and Nate of Story City, and Randy Yeakel and his wife Darla and their children, Mackenzie, Keaton, Quinn, and MaCoy of Kanawha; several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Duane "Duke" and Virginia Yeakel.