Todd Palmer Yarling

Mr. Todd Palmer Yarling, age 68, of Hanover, Indiana, entered this life on August 19, 1956, in Shelbyville, Indiana. He was the loving son of the late Karl and Mae Rose Gahimer Yarling. He spent his early years in the Shelbyville area until his freshman year of high school, when his family moved to Hanover. He graduated from Southwestern High School in 1974 and later attended Hanover College. Shortly after the move to Hanover, Todd and his family became involved in the hydroplane racing world through safety and rescue operations - with Todd serving as a rescue diver. This hands-on experience not only deepened his respect for the sport but also ignited a passion for the river and powerboat racing that would shape the rest of his life. What began as service on the sidelines quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit - both on and off the water.Todd's driving career began in the APBA Inboard Racing circuit with his 5-litre hydroplane, Nautilus. In 1983, he reached the pinnacle of the sport by joining forces with Jim and Nancy Sedam to drive in the unlimited hydroplane class. He piloted the U-22 Miss Tosti Asti, and from 1984 to 1987, Todd raced a new U-22 under the Sedam's ownership. At the close of the 1987 season, the Sedams retired from the sport, but Todd's racing journey was far from over. He went on to drive several other renowned unlimited-class hydroplanes, including: U-11 for Bill Wurster, Jr, U-9 for Alan Vordermeier, U-99.9 for Fred Leland, U-3 for Ed Cooper Sr. & Jr, UR-5 for Larry & Mike Rutkauskas, and U-6 Miss Madison - proudly representing the citizens of Madison, Indiana. Todd's racing career marked by dedication, sportsmanship, and a love for the water. As news of his unexpected passing spread, the hydroplane racing community mourned the loss of a beloved driver and teammate. As one tribute put it: "It's a sad day today in hydroplane racing to learn of the unexpected passing of Todd Yarling." Outside of racing, Todd continued his career in the marine industry. He worked for Southern Indiana Marine in Scottsburg and later as a service specialist at BassPro/Tracker Marine retiring in 2023 after many years of dedicated service. On August 20, 1983, Todd married the love of his life, Tanya Sue Whaley, in a ceremony at their home. Together they built a life full of love, laughter, and memories. They were blessed with two daughters: Tabitha "Tabby" Mary Rose Yarling, who survives, and Tasha Julia Yarling, who died in infancy. Todd's love for his family was unwavering, and he was a proud husband and father. Todd's legacy lives on not just in the roar of the engines he once commanded, but in the love he gave so freely to family, friends, and the racing world.

Please Click Here to View the Video Tribute

A LOVING FAMILY Todd is survived by his beloved daughter, Tabitha "Tabby" Mary Rose Yarling of Hanover, his sister, Yvonna Thomas and her husband Wes of Hanover; his brother, Ky Yarling of Hanover, his sister-in-law, Beverly Deckard and her husband Eddie of Bloomington; his brother-in-law, Bobby Dale Whaley and his wife Hope of Spencer. He also leaves behind a cherished group of nieces and nephews: Maggie (Bri), Cory (Shelby), Karl (Molly), Kody, Sam (Chelsea), and Kiboni, Lindsey (Jeff), Brittney (Pat), Trent (Steff) and Tyler (Sarah). He was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Mae Rose Yarling; his loving wife, Tanya Sue Whaley Yarling; his infant daughter, Tasha Julia Yarling; and several beloved aunts, uncles, and grandparents.

TODD'S WISHES Per Todd's wishes, no formal services will be held. A celebration of life will be planned for later this summer - during the warm season that Todd loved, when hydroplanes raced and the river called.

MEMORIAL EXPRESSIONS Memorial contributions may be made to Tabby's Fund or to Special Olympics. Cards are available at the Morgan & Nay Funeral Centres of Hanover and Madison. Online condolences, remembrances, and memorials can be left at www.morgan-nay.com

To Place An Online Memorial Donation

To send a flower arrangement in memory of
Todd Palmer Yarling, please click here to visit our sympathy store.