Obituary of Arron Marchel Yaras

Arron Marchel Yaras was born on April 17, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, as the third child of William Yaras and Gertrude [Jacobs] Yaras. With deep sadness, we announce his peaceful passing on August 9, 2023, in Prunedale, California, cradled in the loving arms of his devoted wife, Cathy.

Survived by his beloved wife, Catherine, Arron's legacy lives on through his daughter Michelle Yaras, daughter Catherine Gaston, son-in-law Douglas Gaston, granddaughters Katharina and Kassandra Gaston, his siblings, Linda Epstein (Allen) and Robin Mandelbaum (Joe), and his Mother-in-Law, Margaret Rice. He was also predeceased by his brother Sanford Yaras (Judy).

Arron's journey began with an indomitable spirit, an attribute that characterized him from his earliest years. As a boy, he faced challenges head-on. He possessed a unique fearlessness that led him to confront obstacles and find solutions.As a boy, he once encountered a dog that bit him, and without hesitation, he turned the tables and bit the dog back.

Before he became Bar Mitzvah, the Yaras Family moved to Los Angeles County. At the age of thirteen, he began working at Helms Bakery in the printing department, which fostered a lifelong love of presses and commercial printing. He attended California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo and graduated with a BS in Printing, Engineering, and Management. It was at Cal Poly that he met the love of his life, Catherine Ann Rice. On August 16, 1970, they married and had two children, Michelle and Catherine. Arron's dedication to his family was unwavering and his love was cherished.

Throughout his professional life, Arron made significant contributions. His involvement in cataloging hand-set-type for the Shakespearean Press Museum at Cal Poly and his role at the Monterey Aviation Exposition in the1970s showcased his commitment to excellence. In 1980, Arron's entrepreneurial spirit led him to purchase Andrews Printing and Stationary in Seaside, California. As a small business owner, he not only thrived but also became an esteemed member of the Seaside Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating his dedication to the local community. He later worked as the manager of Printing and Mail Services for Monterey County.

Arron's devotion to community extended to his involvement in the leadership board of the Monterey County 4-H program during the 1980s and early 1990s. He planned and acted as tour guide for annual 4-H Leadership trips to Sacramento and Washington, D.C., providing invaluable experiences for hundreds of young 4-Hers. Arron's love for gardening began on his grandparent’s farm in the 1950’s. His love for plants was apparent in his abundant vegetable garden, fruit trees, rose bushes, and an array of orchids. A testament to his dedication, for the past three decades, Arron and Cathy stood as active participants and leaders within the Monterey Bay Orchid Society. For the past two decades, Arron has impacted the community as an active leader of Mended Hearts at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. His tireless efforts supported, educated, and advocated for individuals living with heart disease. Arron's commitment to enhancing quality of life and raising awareness will resonate for years to come.

A celebration of Arron's remarkable life will be held Sunday, October 22, 2023 at the Prunedale Grange Hall, 17890 Moro Road in  Salinas (Prunedale) from 2:00 - 5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests considering a donation to the Salinas chapter of Mended Hearts. Your contribution will carry on Arron's mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by heart disease.

Arron Marchel Yaras will forever remain in our hearts, an embodiment of love, dedication, and community building. His impact on the lives he touched is immeasurable, and his memory will be eternally cherished. His passion for nurturing life and his unwavering commitment to community service is a reminder that life's most precious gifts require tenacity, dedication, and a deep connection to the world around us.