Melinda Lou Yankovich

Melinda Lou Yankovich Melinda Lou Yankovich passed away peacefully after a long illness on October 18, 2010 in Battle Creek, MI at the age of 58. Melinda Lou Keene was born August 28, 1952, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Robert and Barbara (Yeager) Keene. She attended Athens and Union City schools, graduating in 1970 from Union City High School. She went on to attend Central Michigan University, earning degrees in Journalism and Music in 1974. She later attained her Master's degree in Middle School Education from Western Michigan University, along with a Master's certificate in Educational Technology. Melinda served as a teacher at Union City Community Schools from 1975 until her retirement in 2006. Through her dedicated 31 year career, she taught a variety of subjects including Computer Keyboarding and Applications, Vocal Music, Home Economics, Life Skills and English at Union City Middle School. Music was among her most favorite subjects to teach, as she directed several musicals at the Middle School. She was recognized for her commitment and years of service in education. Melinda was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Union City, where she served as a trustee and sang in the church choir. She also sang in the Union City Community Chorale, demonstrating her love of music. As a lifelong area resident, Melinda took pleasure in entertaining, cooking and baking, gardening, decorating and crafts. She also enjoyed playing the piano, reading, golf, travel and dining out. She treasured time with her family, and fun and laughter with her close friends. Melinda will be remembered as an exemplary wife and mother, and a loyal friend. She will also be remembered for her bright, happy smile, kind-hearted spirit and genuine friendliness to everyone she came in contact with. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Mark Yankovich; her daughters, Erin (Aristotle) Ford of Grand Ledge and Lauren (Nicholas) Liebler of Royal Oak; granddaughter, Juliana Liebler; parents, Robert and Barbara Keene of Union City; brother, Lowell (Lynette) Keene of Athens; and seven nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Monday, October 25, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Union City with Pastor Dave Mathis officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Melinda Yankovich to Pines Behavioral Health, 200 Orleans Blvd., Coldwater, MI 49036 You may leave an online tribute by visiting www.putnamfuneralhome.com Arrangements are by the Putnam Funeral Home 517/741-9333 Union City, MI