Yvonne R. Stephens

Yvonne Rae Stephens, a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, caring sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughters at the age of 89 on April 3, 2025. Born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, on June 29, 1935, she was the eldest daughter of Frederick and Ardyce (Bagnall) Hebal. Yvonne shared a devoted 39-year marriage with Raymond Anthony Stephens, beginning on June 15, 1957, until his passing on December 21, 1996.

Yvonne will forever be remembered for her love of family, passion to entertain, generous spirit, creative talents and appreciation of nature. She was happiest when her home was filled with family and friends. Her family will always cherish memories of her in the kitchen, sharing her passion for cooking. Gratitude was a constant in Yvonne's life; she always wanted those around her to smile and feel appreciated, often saying her heartfelt "Thank you, thank you" as a sincere expression of gratitude, even for the smallest gestures.

Growing up in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Yvonne graduated as Salutatorian of Stevens Point High School in 1953 before pursuing her lifelong passion for food and nutrition. She earned a Bachelor's degree from Iowa State University and a Master's from Wayne State University. Yvonne deeply valued education and generously supported her grandchildren's academic journeys. Yvonne dedicated her career to the well-being of others, serving as a Food Service Director for Linn-Mar Community Schools in Marion, Iowa, and later for Northville Public Schools after moving to Northville, Michigan. In retirement, Yvonne found joy in the natural beauty surrounding her Kewadin, Michigan home, where she established a family gathering spot.

Above all else, Yvonne's greatest joy was her family. She was the heart of every gathering, expressing her love through cooking and serving others. Her kitchen was designed as a central hub bringing everyone together. And while she lived in a quieter world after losing her hearing, the kitchen remained a joyful place. Meal planning and food preparation were a way for her to connect and make memories, food was truly her love language. She never missed a birthday or holiday, always looking forward to the next reason to gather and celebrate with the people she loved.

A woman of many talents, Yvonne was a skilled and passionate weaver and knitter, creating beautiful hand-made gifts for her loved ones. She was also a curious and engaged lifelong learner, embracing technology with impressive skill. As the family historian, she meticulously researched her genealogy. Yvonne's love for the outdoors was evident in her enjoyment of nature and the many birds she welcomed to her home.

Her unwavering dedication to family, her generous spirit, and her passion for cooking will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives were enriched by her presence.

Yvonne is survived by her loving daughters, Christine "Tiner" (Norman) Fankell, Michelle “Shelley” (Paul) Kobrin, and Pamela (Gregory) Gumkowski; her son-in-law, Christopher Johnson; her grandchildren, Karlek (Emily) Johnson, Tolerton (Aleksandar) Marcius, Mackenzie (Cristhian Bravo) Fankell, William (Cristina Bassani) Fankell, Cassandra (Alex) Vasiloff, Bryce (Başak Anayurt-Kobrin) Kobrin, Jeremy (Elisabeth Blackman) Gumkowski, and Erica (Joseph Maura) Gumkowski; her great grandchildren, Cameron, Ethan, Zumia, Zoran, Violetta, Renata, Mateo, and Emery; and her siblings, Marilyn (Robert) Dietz and William Hebal. She was preceded in death by her husband; her daughter, Patricia Johnson; her loving companion of 10 years, Joseph Dean; and her parents.

A private Celebration of Life will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Hwy, PO Box 231, Bellaire, MI 49615 or Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, 2846 3 Mile Road N, Traverse City, MI 49686.