Nebraska
Nebraska businessman Michael Yanney dies, lawmakers react
OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – A Nebraska businessman and pillar of the Omaha community passed away over the weekend.
Michael Yanney, founder of Burlington Capital investment company, has died at 92 years old.
Yanney was born in Kearney in 1933. He and his wife, Gail, founded “Partnership for Kids,” a mentoring and scholarship program back in 1986.
He also founded the E.K. & Mary Yanney Heritage Park in Kearney and named it after his parents.
In May 2024, Yanney received the University of Nebraska – Kearney’s highest honor: the Ron and Carol Cope Cornerstone of Excellence Award. The above photo shows Yanney accepting the award.
Governor Jim Pillen and Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon are some of the figures remembering Yanney’s impact on the state.
REACTIONS
Pillen called Yanney a “true friend for a long time” on social media.
Bacon shared his thoughts on social media Sunday.
Sen. Pete Ricketts said Yanney was a “business leader and a true titan” of the community.
In his post, Nebraska Rep. Adrian Smith said that Yanney “embodied the very best of the American Dream, rising from humble beginnings to leave an enduring mark on our state.”
Senator Deb Fischer added in her message Monday morning.
Rep. Mike Flood also shared his condolences.
—
Watch breaking news unfold on our livestream. Download the First Alert 6 streaming app to your TV or find us in your favorite streaming platform.
Copyright 2026 WOWT. All rights reserved.