Michalene R. "Mikki" Yeoman

Michalene R. "Mikki" Yeoman, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away on March 19, 2025, at the age of 65 in Crown Point, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and devoted service. Born on June 15, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois, Mikki was the cherished daughter of Mary Lou Eckhart and the late Karl R. Strehl, and the beloved granddaughter of the late Emily and Andrew Margaritis.

Mikki's vibrant spirit was a gift to all who knew her. She graduated from Lake Central High School in 1977, where her compassionate nature was evident from a young age. Committed to a life of care and service, she pursued her education fervently, earning an associate's degree in dental hygiene and a bachelor's degree in nursing. Her passion for helping others shone through her extensive career in healthcare. Mikki was a nurse who took immense pride in her profession, working with special needs clients at Lirio Resources, as a paraprofessional with special needs students at RCHS, and dedicating several years to the Crisis Center.

Mikki's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of family, friendship, and community involvement. She married her beloved husband, Dan Yeoman, on January 1, 2001. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Nicole Des Forges (Evan Ellis), Candace (Richard) Cornell, Tim Des Forges, Jr., Brittany Des Forges, Michala (Matt) Joseph, Chris Des Forges, Lysette (Randy) Franscoviak, Julie (Joe) Gudeman, and step-son, Kyle Yeoman (Jaime De La Rosa). Mikki's joy was multiplied by her 16 grandchildren: Kaden, Joshua, Molly, Ezra, Keegan, Brynlie, Lincoln, Riley, Ava, Mattie, Lexus, Ashlin, Samantha, Ethan, Theodore, and Jaxson, who will cherish her memory and the unconditional love she gave.

The family tree Mikki leaves behind is firmly rooted in love and includes her mother, Mary Lou Eckhart, her brothers, Robert (Tasha) Strehl and Scott (Candy) Strehl, and her sisters, Krista Parkison and Katrina (Keith) Martin. She was preceded in death by her father, Karl R. Strehl, and her grandparents, Emily and Andrew Margaritis.

Mikki's interests reflected her outgoing nature and love for community engagement. She relished in the simple pleasures of life, such as shopping, visiting yard sales, and camping at the fairgrounds. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone as she managed her own booth at area festivals, sharing her joy and spirited energy with all those she encountered. People were drawn to Mikki's friendly demeanor, and she never missed an opportunity to make a new friend or lend a helping hand.

Loving, kind, and spirited are words that only begin to describe Mikki. Her presence was a gift to those around her, and her passion for life was infectious. As a nurse, she touched countless lives with her empathy and care. As a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, she instilled values of love and kindness that will live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Mikki's legacy is one of love, laughter, and selfless service. Her impact on the world is immeasurable, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she has left behind. As we bid farewell to Michalene R. "Mikki" Yeoman, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the indelible mark she has left on our hearts. Her memory will be treasured forever as a guiding light of love and kindness.

The family is planning a celebration of Mikki’s life for a later date. Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the cremation arrangements. Memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.