Obituary of Terry L. Yonker

Terry L. Yonker of Youngstown, a life-long environmentalist whose passion was protecting the Great Lakes, died Thursday April 23, 2015 at Niagara Hospice in Lockport.. Born January 27, 1944 in Grand Haven, Michigan, he earned a degree in meteorology and human ecology/sociology from the University of Wisconsin in 1968. Mr. Yonker started his career working as Environmental Staff Advisor to former Michigan Governor William G. Milliken. He assisted in drafting the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1972. He also served as executive director for both Michigan Audubon Society and Great Lakes United. Most recently he consulted on the Peace Bridge expansion proposal and several proposed wind projects, conducting avian risk assessment and radar studies of bird movement and migration. In 2008 he co-founded the Great Lakes Wind Collaborative. Mr. Yonker had a special interest and expertise in the areas of climate change, bird migration, winter navigation and Coast Guard icebreaking operations in the Great Lakes. He had belonged to the Buffalo Ornithological Society since the 1990's, where he served as president for 4 years. An Eagle Scout, he was a long-time volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America, most recently serving as chair of the conservation committee for the Niagara Frontier Council. His hobbies included bird watching, sailing and fly fishing. He is survived by his beloved wife; Lynne Landon; his dear brothers Chris (Diane) Yonker and Rick (Leslie) Yonker; his nephews, Brent (Fawn) and Evan (Heather) Yonker, and a niece, Emilie Yonker as well as other family and friends. Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, N. Fourth & Ridge Streets, Lewiston on Friday, May 1, from 5 - 8 pm. A Celebraton of Life will be held at a later date in Michigan. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094, the Boy Scouts Of America Niagara Frontier Council, 401 Maryvale Dr., Cheektowaga, NY 14225, or to Buffalo Ornithological Society, 381 Cadman Dr., Williamsville, NY 14221.