Mary Jean Yonke

Mary Jean Yonke, 90, of Zion Illinois went to be with the Lord on March 1, 2026, at Avina of Kenosha Nursing Home.

Mary Jean was born on December 15, 1935, in Kenosha WI to the late John and Jennie Romano.

Mary Jean was married to the late Paul James Yonke of Zion on July 7, 1957, at Christian Assembly of God in Zion, Illinois. She was an active member of the church for over 25 years and served in various ministry roles. She later attended Lakeview Church and most recently, Christ Community Church.

Mary Jean was employed at Warwick Industries, worked as support staff in a doctor’s office, a lunchroom lady at Elmwood Elementary School, but she will be best remembered as a wonderful wife and mother and by many, Zion’s Avon Lady.

Mary Jean enjoyed traveling to many destinations with Zion Park District senior groups and was a long time member of the Queen Bees of Zion Red Hat Society.

Mary Jean is survived by four sons, James (Joyce) Yonke of Zion and their children, Joseph, James, Justin, Jillian, Jared and Jacob; Steve (Debbie) Yonke of Fair Grove Missouri and their children, Aubrey, Stephanie and Allie; Peter (Georgann) of Naples, Florida, and their children, Eleia, Andrew and Maia and David Yonke of Fair Grove Missouri and his children, Julia, Matthew, Jonathan and Kristina. She is also survived by two sisters Jackie (Gino) Gallo and Angela (Ralph) Gemignani and 17 great- grandchildren.

Mary Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Paul James Yonke; grandson John; great-grandson Jackson; and daughter-in-law Karen (David) Yonke.

A visitation for friends and family will be held from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on March 20, 2026, at Christ Community Church, 2500 Dowie Memorial Drive, Zion. With the funeral service following at 11:30 a.m. officiated by Pastor Wendell Anderson. A chapel service will be held following the funeral service at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park 1436 Kenosha Rd, Zion, Illinois 60099.

Mary Jean was a dedicated listener to WMBI Radio, if you wish, in her memory a donation can be made at WMBI Radio.