Julian Alexander Yakimowich

Julian Alexander Yakimovich, age 71, of Commerce Township, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025. Born on January 15, 1954, in Detroit, Julian lived a rich and meaningful life filled with creativity, hard work, and a deep love for the simple joys that made life beautiful.
Raised in a loving Baptist home by his parents, Roman and Ludmila Yakimovich, Julian carried a quiet, enduring faith throughout his life. While he wasn't a regular churchgoer in later years, his relationship with God remained strong, expressed through daily prayer, love for others, and a life lived with kindness and humility.
Julian's career was grounded in engineering and construction. He spent many years working with a large road-building company, helping to shape the very roads people travel every day. But his talents didn't stop there-he was a gifted carpenter who found joy in working with his hands. Whether he was building something new or adding personal touches to his own home, Julian was always creating. Later in life, he started his own inspection business and remained deeply connected to the home building industry he loved.
He was a man of many passions. Gardening was a lifelong joy, rooted in his early years growing up on a farm. He took pride in growing his own vegetables and canning what he harvested each season. Fishing was another favorite pastime-any day with a rod and reel was a good day for Julian. He also had a love for travel and adventure, especially when it came to exploring the natural beauty of Michigan.
Julian had a warmth and sense of humor that drew people in. He never met a stranger. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, seen, and appreciated. He loved to cook and entertain, often sharing meals-and stories-around the table. His passion for food even led him to create YouTube videos, passing down cherished family recipes like his homemade Ukrainian kielbasa. Julian was the kind of person who made people feel like family.
At the heart of Julian's life was his beloved wife, Deborah Bokano. Their deep love, mutual respect, and shared joy were the foundation of a life beautifully lived together. Their bond was one of unwavering support, laughter, and countless memories.
Julian is survived by his loving wife Deborah; his brothers Peter (Elyse) Yakimovich and Anthony Yakimovich; and his many nieces and nephews-Jessica, Jason, Andrew, Alisha, Trisha, Nicole, Sonya, and Stacy Jo, as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews who brought him so much joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roman and Ludmila Yakimovich, and his brother Lester Yakimovich.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors, 340 N. Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake, Michigan. A funeral service will follow immediately afterward at the same location.
Julian leaves behind a legacy of love-seen in the homes he built, the gardens he tended, the meals he lovingly prepared, and the many lives he touched with his generous spirit. He will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was: a kind, funny, hardworking man who deeply loved his family and friends.
May his memory be a comfort, and may his spirit live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.