Yvonne Ann Martin, 53, of Tolland, beloved wife of Richard Martin passed from this earthly life to be with Jesus on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 while surrounded by family and friends. Yvonne was born October 10, 1963 in Montebello, CA, daughter of Darrell Boyd and Yvonne (Kolstad) Richardson. She is survived by her loving husband Rick of 32 years, her daughters Stephanie Yvonne Spicer (husband Jeffrey) and Rebecca Ann Masse’ (husband Mike).
She also leaves her brother: Steven Richardson (wife Paulette), sister Renee Richardson, Uncles Gerry (Aunt Carol), Bob, (Aunt Louise) Roger (Aunt Syliva), Doug (Aunt Sue), Skoog Kolstad, mother-in-law Norma Keegan, sister-In-laws: Diane Richardson, Cindy Fuentes (husband Ray), Norma Lynn Salisky (husband Chris), Robin Wolfe (husband Peter), brother-In-laws Stephen Martin (former wife Kathy Patrick), Doug Martin (wife Lisa), Jeffrey Martin (wife Maria), Doug Keegan, mother-in-law Maria Martin, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Yvonne was predeceased in death by her father Darrell Boyd, mother Yvonne (Kolstad) Richardson, Uncle Tom Kolstad, brother Thomas Richardson and sister-in-law Roxanne Martin.
Yvonne travelled avidly and enjoyed camping in various locales, such as Alaska, Yellowstone, Maine, and her last trip was a Holy Land tour in Israel. Her hobbies included cooking, baking, gardening and crafts of all sorts. But Yvonne’s absolute joy was being “Nana” to her grandchildren: Micah, Josiah-Talon, Jordan, Declan Masse and Liam Spicer.
Yvonne was especially proud of going back to school and completing her bachelor and master degrees. She held positions at Pratt & Whitney as a Warranty Analyst, Bank of America as a bank professional, a Florida school bus driver and a Pharmacist Assistant. She received many awards for excellence. Yvonne was also a gifted athlete, competing in the Arizona State High School Championship in hurdling and the decathlon.
Yvonne was a devout Christian, who enjoyed serving her Lord Jesus: She loved her family, and was a devoted wife and mother. She often hosted life groups/book clubs, she taught Sunday school, and boldly shared Jesus with others. She was a great friend to many; who could forget her loving hugs and smile. Her bold faith and courage was an inspiration to all. She had a big heart willing to help all who came into her path. She often gave anonymously and generously. She loved well and was in return loved by many, and will be greatly missed.
The family would like to extend special thanks to the River of Life Christian Fellowship and others who helped care for Yvonne. They also would like to thank all who provided meals and donated toward medical expenses. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:30 pm on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at the River of Life Church, 384 Merrow Road, Tolland, CT 06084. A reception will follow at the same location. ***We are asking everyone to please wear colors other than black. *** Burial will be private. For online condolences, please visit http://www.pietrasfuneralhome.com/