Ya'Liez "Yaya" Dakari Reed

Ya’Liez (Yaya) Dakari Reed, age 18, of Fond du Lac, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 31, 2025. He was born on June 21, 2006. At St. Joseph’s Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the beloved son of the late Dimitri Reed and Heidi Plonsky.

Ya’Liez was a 2024 graduate of Horace Mann High School in North Fond du Lac, where he was known not only for his academic dedication, but for his incredible athletic talent – especially on the football field. Football was one of his greatest passions. He played with heart, grit, and a contagious enthusiasm that inspired teammates and coaches alike. He was currently attending Monmouth College in Monmouth, IL, continuing both his academic and athletic journey, with hopes and dreams that stretched far into the future.

But what made Ya’Liez truly unforgettable wasn’t just his accomplishments, it was his spirit. He had a smile that could light up any room and a laugh that made you feel like everything was going to be okay. His presence brought warmth and comfort, and he had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and loved. Whether he was spending time with friends, supporting his family, or simply cracking a joke, Ya’Liez brought joy to every moment.

He was a loyal friend, a loving son, and someone who genuinely cared about the people around him. He loved music, hanging out with friends, and always made time for the people who mattered most. He was fun to be around and truly the kind of person who made life better just by being part of it.

A few words from his friends were; “Ya’Liez was the sweetest soul to walk this earth. He touched every heart. He was 18 years old, full of love, light, and laughter. He was so kind no matter who you were. He had so much passion for things such as football, fishing, and hunting, but most of all, taking care of his family. Yaya had so much love for everyone, but most importantly, his mother and two brothers. He was a gentleman. He used his manners that his momma taught him. I've never met someone with more love in their heart.”

Though his life was far too short, the impact he made in 18 years will be remembered forever. He leaves behind countless memories, lessons, and love in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his mother, Heidi Plonsky; two brothers, Dimitri Reed II and LaVerne Smith III; grandparents, Deborah Wilhelms and Dennis Ezell, and Danna and Lawrence Stephens; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, friends, and his beloved dog, Milo. He was preceded in death by his father, Dimitri Reed; sister, Aaliyah Cichacki; grandfather, Sammie Reed; and great grandparents, Joanne and Frankilin Wilhelms.

The visitation will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Uecker-Witt Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow the visitation at 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Cremation has taken place.

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com