Storm Lake Times Pilot

Paul Yak


Paul Yak, 31, of Delray Beach, Fla., formerly of Storm Lake, died Friday, May 26, 2023 in Delray Beach, Fla.

A Memorial Mass will take place Saturday, June 10, at 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Storm Lake. Burial will be held prior to the service at 11 a.m. in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Storm Lake. Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements.

Paul Makuach Stephen Yak was born May 3, 1992 to Stephen Reath and Martha Ruon in Akobo, South Sudan. He was baptized as an infant at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waat, South Sudan. Most recently, Paul was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Storm Lake. He attended St. Mary’s School in Storm Lake, graduating in 2010. He obtained a bachelor of arts in sports management and business communications from Augustana University in Sioux Falls, S.D. Paul went on to be an entrepreneur and coach after college. He was the CEO of Yak Training Club and co-CEO of M.T. Athletics. He also expanded his non-profit organization into East Africa, touching the lives of many.

Paul was passionate about basketball and running and loved coaching children. On July 2, 2016, Paul traveled to Australia for the Olympic trials in the Gold Coast Marathon. In his free time, he could be found at the beach working out and going shopping. He loved traveling, especially his memorable trip to Spain. Paul had a positive impact on many people’s lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his parents Stephen Reath and Martha Ruon of Storm Lake; brothers: Bidong Yak of Storm Lake; Reath Yak of Storm Lake; sister, Nyalang Yak of Storm Lake; and many friends.