Michael Anthony Ybarra, 60, passed away March 1, at Satanta District Hospital, Satanta, Kan.
He was born August 28, 1965, to Eduvigen G. and Corina (Velasquez) Ybarra, in Wichita, Kan.
Michael graduated from Ulysses High School with the Class of 1983, forming lifelong friendships with classmates who remained close to his heart throughout his life. After high school, he attended Fort Hays State University before returning home to Ulysses.
He worked at JE Crutchfield, and later at Casillas Petroleum. Coaching was one of Michael’s greatest passions. He dedicated countless hours to mentoring young athletes, he coached many sports, including high school basketball and baseball and middle school girls’ basketball.
Outside of work and coaching, Michael found joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, golfing, fishing and cheering on his favorite teams. Above all, he cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren, supporting their activities and creating memories that will last forever.
He is survived by his fiancé, Vanessa Metcalf, Ulysses; children: Joshua and wife, Laci Ybarra, Augusta, Kan., Chelsea and husband, Ariel Reyes, Groton, Mass., Tia Ybarra, Ulysses, Morgan and husband, Gage Robertson Dodge City, Kan., Gabrielle Woodworth, Fredonia, Kan., Royce Glover, Lydia Glover and fiancé, Luther Woods, all of Ulysses; mother, Corina Ybarra, Ulysses; sister, Debra Maupin, Ulysses; mother of his children, Paula Ybarra; grandchildren: Easton, Zahli, Emani, Marqus, Cole, Chadd, Chase, Christopher, Kalom, Michael and James.
He was preceded in death by his father, Eduvigen Ybarra; granddaughter, Ezri Aiyanna Chavez-Ybarra; and brother-in-law, Bob Maupin.
Visitation took place from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., Friday, March 6, at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses.
Rosary was at 9 a.m., Saturday, March 7, at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church.
Funeral Mass was at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 7, at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Reverend Eric Gyamfi officiating.
Interment followed at Ulysses Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to Michael Ybarra Grandchildren Education Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave., Ulysses, KS 67880.
Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.
