Michael B. Yanney, founder of Burlington Capital and one of Omaha’s most respected civic leaders, passed away at the age of 92 on February 14th, 2026.

While he was widely recognized for his accomplishments in business, those who knew him best will remember a man defined not by titles or transactions, but by generosity, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to others. He often said that success is not measured by what you collect, but by what you give. He lived that belief every day.

Born in 1933 in Kearney, Nebraska, the youngest of nine children, Mr. Yanney’s life was shaped early by hardship and responsibility. After losing his father at age 11, he and his siblings worked to help support their family. He shined shoes, sold vegetables from his mother’s garden, and took on any job available. Through it all, his mother instilled in him the importance of education, faith, credibility, and compassion. These values would guide him throughout his life.

Together with his wife of over 60 years, Dr. Gail Walling Yanney, he became one of Omaha’s most dedicated philanthropic leaders. Their partnership was rooted in shared values and a deep love for their community. They devoted their time, energy, and resources to advancing education, healthcare, the arts, and youth development across Nebraska.

In 1989, the Yanneys founded what is known today as Partnership 4 Kids, a mentoring and scholarship program serving at-risk youth in the Greater Omaha area. For more than two decades, they remained personally involved, believing that mentorship could change the trajectory of a young person’s life. Mr. Yanney also served as president of the Building Bright Futures Executive Board and co-chaired major campaigns supporting the University of Nebraska system, always focused on opening doors for students who might otherwise be left behind.

He believed deeply in the power of education, not only because it shaped his own life, but because, as his mother reminded him, it was something no one could ever take away. That conviction drove his lifelong advocacy for young people and institutions dedicated to learning and growth.

In his hometown of Kearney, his philanthropic vision also took form through E.K. & Mary Yanney Heritage Park. What began in 1998 as an idea to create something meaningful for local families became the transformation of 80 acres into one of the Midwest’s premier destination parks, named in honor of his parents. Built through a unique donor-driven model and sustained through partnership with the City of Kearney, the park reflects his enduring belief that communities thrive when generosity is paired with thoughtful stewardship. Free and accessible to all, it stands as a lasting tribute to his commitment to family, opportunity, and the places people call home.

Those who worked alongside Mr. Yanney remember his personal touch as much as his leadership. His handwritten “Y” or “See me, Y” on a memo was an invitation, not merely to discuss business, but to think bigger, to lead with courage, and to act with integrity. He challenged others to do their best with the talents they were given and to use those talents in service of something greater than themselves.

Michael B. Yanney leaves behind a legacy measured not simply in institutions built, but in lives changed. His example of generosity, discipline, humility, and faith in others will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. We extend our heartfelt support and deepest sympathies to his beloved wife, Gail, and to his daughter, Lisa Roskens, our Chairman and CEO, as well as to their entire family during this time.