Donna Yelle

Born on December 15, 1957, in Ishpeming, Donna was a mostly lifelong resident of Little Lake, Michigan. She was married to the love of her life, Daniel Yelle, for 38 wonderful years. Donna pursued her education in Accounting/Finance and Business Computer Systems at Northern Michigan University and built a successful career as an IT Technical Analyst for National City Bank Corp.

Donna was deeply dedicated to her community and her faith. She served as a Cub Scout Leader for Packs 333, 350, and 356, as well as Treasurer for the First Baptist Church of Gwinn. Her love for the Lord guided her life, and her passions included gardening, homesteading, rescuing unadoptable animals, protecting wildlife, raising monarch butterflies, knitting, and crafting homemade wine, beer, and bread.

Donna is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel Yelle; her children, Kristopher (Carey) Yelle, Wade Yelle, and Michelle (Daryl) Johnson; and her cherished grandchildren, Tyler Yelle, Kadence Yelle, Damian Johnson, Hailey Johnson, Daniel Johnson, and Dylan Hart. She is also survived by her “other mom” Theresa Guiliani; her sisters, Carolen Cluff and Rosalie Carmen; her brothers, Ralph Girard and Chris (Karen) Girard; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and dear friends Jenny Peterson and Carla and Rob Crawford.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence “Cookie” Girard and Lucille (Carp) Girard; an infant son, Steven Jeffrey Shoff, Jr.; her brother, Daniel Girard; her daughter-in-law, Nancy Carol Yelle; and her lifelong best friend, Teresa McGuire.

Donna will be remembered as the epitome of selflessness, love, and compassion. She was known for her endless determination to make a difference in the lives of others, performing random acts of kindness and always willing to learn new skills to help those in need. Her humor, faith, generosity, and boundless energy left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Upper Peninsula Home Health and Hospice, especially Dorothy and Amy, as well as Danielle Haanpaa and the staff of the Cancer Care Center, for their exceptional care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to First Baptist Church, 195 N. Billings St., Gwinn, MI 49841, for the Hope Starts Today Ministry in Donna’s name.

Friends may call at First Baptist Church in Gwinn on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Tristan Clark officiating. A luncheon will follow.

The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.