Malga Yanga

Malga H. Yanga, 23, of Storm Lake died Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, at Newton Correctional Facility.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Storm Lake United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Storm Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 3-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, in the Family Life Center (211 E. Third St., Storm Lake). Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home of Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements.

Malga Harun Yanga was born July 22, 2001, in Omaha, Neb., the son of Harun Yanga Malga and Sarah Jacka Nimir. He graduated from Storm Lake High School.

Over the years, Malga played and excelled at basketball. His time on the Storm Lake Tornadoes basketball team was exciting and thrilling. He played with such passion and talent wearing the No. 2 jersey for the Tornadoes. He would go on to play for Beyond Ball and Top 64 for three summers. In his free time, Malga would coach basketball in the park and at the school. In addition to his basketball, he also enjoyed playing video games and spending time with family and friends.

Malga, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away Sept. 4, 2024. He was a beacon of light and love in the lives of everyone who knew him. Malga's charming personality and kind heart made him a cherished member of his family and community. He was known for his unwavering dedication to his family, always staying connected and offering support, even during the toughest times. His daily phone calls and heartfelt advice were a source of strength and comfort to many. Malga's love for his family was evident in every interaction, and he never missed an opportunity to remind them how much they meant to him.

Malga was a phenomenal basketball player, known for his incredible skills on the court. From a young age, he displayed a natural talent for the game, with an impressive ability to dribble, shoot and defend. His agility and sharp instincts made him a standout player in every game he played. Many who watched him play believed he had the potential to go professional, as his dedication and passion for basketball were unmatched. Malga's teammates admired his leadership, always pushing them to strive for greatness. Though his journey was cut short, his legacy as an exceptional player and an inspiring figure in the basketball community will never be forgotten.

Malga was also a loyal friend, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. His positive outlook on life and his ability to find joy in the small things made him a joy to be around. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience and unwavering commitment to those he held dear. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Malga's memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Rest in peace, Malga. You will always be remembered and loved.

We believe he will be confidently greeted in heaven by his cousins: Naayian Nyiwe, Dean Deng and Laka Girah; and his uncle David Keita Nange.