Arlene A. Yonkee

Arlene A. Yonkee nee Battista beloved wife of Ron L. Yonkee, devoted mother of Jacquie
(Todd) Snick, James (Sherri) Yonkee, Linda Yonkee, and Angela (Bill) Suhr. Loving daughter
of the late Vincent and Angeline Battista. Dear sister of Eugene (Arlene) Battista. Cherished
Nana of Cody (Gianna) Snick; Tory Snick; Nicolette, Antone and Toni Yonkee; Taylor
(Matthew) Gondeck; Randy Barton; Trevor and Racquel Suhr. Loving Great Nana of Giavanna
Snick and Ryder Gondeck. Dearest aunt of many nieces and nephews.
Arlene A. Yonkee was born November 29, 1942 in Chicago to Vincent and Angeline Battista.
Arlene met her husband Ron when they were freshman in high school. It was love at first sight.
They were a living example of a classic love story to all who knew them. Arlene was intensely
and selflessly devoted to Ron and their four children, Jacquie, Jim, Linda and Angela, and
always ensured they were taken care of. When her children got married and had children of their
own, she played a vital role in their childcare. Daycare was out of the question. She cherished
and adored each of them during the time she spent watching them.
From an early age on, Arlene was very artistic and a talented pianist. She had a love and passion
for decorating and the perfect eye for it. Her love for her many German Shorthaired Pointers
over the years was another great attribute.
Arlene enjoyed family traditions, especially when she would bake Christmas cookies with all her
children and grandchildren. Family vacations to Hilton Head Island was one of her greatest joys.
She also enjoyed her sweets, shopping, decorating and playing slot machines.
Above all, she was devoted to her family, nothing brought her more happiness than cooking
them Sunday pasta and meatball dinners and sitting by the pool. Even with her quiet demeanor
you always felt you were her priority. The impact she left on all of our lives is beyond measure.
Arlene was a kind, gentle and thoughtful person who will be greatly missed by all.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
www.stjude.org