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Ronada “Roni” Lee Yelle

SANDS TOWNSHIP, MI – Heaven angels had rejoiced and welcomed the arrival of Ronada “Roni” Lee Yelle, 77, of Sands Michigan on May 20th, 2026. Relieving her of a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

On December 22nd, 1948 Ronada was welcomed into the home of John J. and Doneda L. Schaefer in the small town of Crandon, WI. She went through elementary and middle school in Wisconsin and shortly after graduated high school. Continuing her career in schooling she attended Wayland Academy and Nicolet College. Roni was one of three students to receive the first Associate of Arts Degree granted by the Nicolet College.

With that she had a found love for numbers. That being the intricate and precise workings of mathematical equations. With those skills it had led her into her life long career working with numbers and being a book keeper and accountant. Along with having the love for numbers she had a love for working with the community. That had led her to being a part of Sands Township Deputy Clerk and Intern Clerk. She had also served on the Sands Township school board and was one of the developers, she was also a major push for the establishment of the Sands Township Cemetery.

With Roni having such a fine attention to detail she loved Arts and Crafts, Painting, Lettering, etc. Anything that was fine in detail. Her lettering and sign making was always requested by many. She also had a “Green-Thumb”. She loved plants and had a beautiful assortment all throughout her life. Some plants lasted decades longer than they were drawn to because of her care. Roni was always willing to share her care tactics with anyone who asked about plants.

Growing up she had a fond love for things with motors. Whether it was a motorcycle or a car. She loved them because it was something her and her brother Jack would bond over. Later in life, she bought three Harley-Davidson bikes over the span of a few years because she would ride her bike so often. With loving motorcycles she loved her cars too, She later became the owner of her mother’s 1965 Buick Riviera. She was a part of many associations and groups such as, The Riviera Car Club, Harley-Davidson Owners Group (H.O.G.), and many more. She loved being a part of something that was such a tight knit community.

Along with loving many things, she also loved her family. Significant others, Sons, Daughters in Law, Grandkids, and even her Great Grandkids. Her family values were strong. Family was worth more to her than expensive gifts or money. That was something she always looked forward to at the end of her day. She was a staple in a home for her sons and many others to come. She was a strong willed and determined woman who believed in right from wrong. She was always willing to speak up when she knew something was not right. She cherished her sister Jody (Doneda). They would practically speak every day to one another sharing family stories and how their life journeys were going. Their bond was something that carried on over time and was such a joy to her. They would always send each other gifts that reminded them of one another.

Ronada is survived by her significant other, Robert Kallio of Marquette Michigan, her two sons, Justin Yelle of Sands Michigan, Ben (Angela) Yelle of Sands Michigan. Grandchildren, Zachary (Melanie) Yelle and Abigail Yelle. Great grandchildren, Colton and Caleb Yelle. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Jack.

As a result, family and life long adventures are truly what made her who she was. Sometimes, it’s the simple things in life that are what truly matter. Waking up everyday and looking for the best in everything. Live life to the fullest and always have faith in the journey you’ve been given.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Canale Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Marquette, on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 1:00 pm until the time of service at 3:00 pm. Rev. Kevin Taylor will officiate. A dessert reception will be served during the visitation. Interment will be made in the Sands Township Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com