Yolanda Mena

Yolanda Mena was a confident, plainspoken, fun-loving woman with an unforgettable sense of humor that endeared her to all. She was vibrant and caring and remained deeply committed to her family and friends throughout her life. A devoted daughter, sister, mother and grandmother, Yolanda lived in harmony with her beliefs and ideals, knowing that nothing was more important than the love of family. She was a person you could never forget, and her charm stayed with you long after she had gone.

The 1950s were an exciting decade in our nation’s history, as America strode confidently from the ashes of World War II into a new age of prosperity. It was in these times of progress that Americans discovered the proximity of the suburbs, the convenience of dishwashers and the swinging sounds of rock and roll. It was only fitting that Yolanda was born into these exciting times on January 29, 1957, in Plainwell, Michigan. She was the sixth of nine children to Ruben and Maria (Liceaga) Mena. With eight brothers and sisters, Yolanda had plenty of opportunities to create unforgettable childhood memories.

Yolanda attended Martin High School through the 11th grade, and then left to work at Kessler’s Factory, a children’s clothing manufacturer in Wayland. She later left Kessler’s after about 20 years and went to work at Baypointe Restaurant on Gun Lake. Eventually, she was able to get a job at Borgess Hospital working in the Dietary Department, where she stayed for 3 years.

Yolanda was one of those unique people that make life more interesting just by being alive. A colorful and proud woman with a great sense of humor, she lived a life full of good company, hard work and love for family. She was a very sociable person and immensely enjoyed being with her friends. However, her true joy came from being with her son, Nicholas, born in 1980; he was the greatest gift in her life. But Yolanda always had a strong sense of family, and her son added yet another incredible blessing to her life.

Although Yolanda had a “big” (vivacious) personality, she found much joy in the simple pleasures in life. She loved the openness of being in the country, having many cats around to keep her company and putting her green thumb to good use in her garden. On January 6, 2011, Yolanda’s life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. With an unwavering positive spirit, she faced her illness with dignity. Even in her most difficult moments, she was strong and worked through each phase of her illness. Her beloved family surrounded her every day, vigilantly caring for her every need. Although fiercely independent, Yolanda finally left her apartment to move in with her sister, Rose, just 13 days ago so she could care more closely for her. Yolanda passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2011, at the age of 54.

Yolanda Mena was a vibrant and assertive soul with boundless love for her family. She will be greatly missed.

Members of her family include her son, Nicholas Mena; grandchildren, Lexi and Spencer; siblings: Pete Moreno, Joe Moreno, Guillermo (Maria) Moreno, Gilbert (Marcy) Montez, Rose (John) Visscher, Jorge (Jane) Mena, Rene Mena and Gloria Mena.

Friends may spend time with Yolanda’s family on Thursday, April 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Life Story Funeral Home - Plainwell, 120 S. Woodhams (685-5881). Services will be held on Friday, April 15, at 11:00 a.m. at Orangeville Pentecostal Church of Christ. Please visit Yolanda’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you may share a memory, upload a photo and sign her online guest book. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Wings of Hope Hospice.