Arlene Marie Yack

Arlene Marie Yack, 91, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. She was born in Kingsley to the late Herbert and Sophia (Sarski) Yack.

Arlene's childhood was spent growing up on the family farm with her three brothers, where she learned the value of hard work, family, and perseverance. She often recalled with pride her days picking potatoes for her father, who purchased potatoes from local farmers and distributed them to area sellers. Arlene was always the fastest picker, earning enough extra money to become the first person in her high school class to own a pair of Levi jeans! It was a cherished story that reflected her determination, independence, and a little bit of competitive spirit.

During high school, Arlene spent her summers working at Traverse City Provision Company alongside her mother and other family members. She also worked at a photography studio retouching photographs and served as a candy striper at Munson Medical Center, beginning a lifelong connection to hard work and helping others.

In 1954, Arlene married Daniel Ross Coates of Traverse City. Together, they raised three children and built a family that would become the center of her life.

As her children grew, Arlene stayed involved in their school years, serving as a playground monitor at Interlochen Grade School while her two youngest children attended. She later began a long career at Lear Corporation, where she worked for more than 30 years.

Above all, Arlene treasured her family. She will be remembered for her kindness, quick wit, resilience, and the special joy she found in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an avid reader and passed her love of books along to her daughter, Susan. She also enjoyed a good game of euchre and was a formidable player, winning numerous tournaments at the senior center and local casinos. Her competitive spirit and sharp mind made her a worthy opponent!

Arlene's life was a testament to hard work, devotion to family, and finding joy in the simple pleasures. From her childhood on the farm to the many years spent raising her family and building friendships, she leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will be lovingly treasured.

She is survived by her children, Cynthia Howard, Scott Coates, and Susan (Mike) Dost; grandchildren Shane Wilkes, Brandon Wilkes, and Magdalena Coates; great-grandchildren Autumn, Gabriel, Grace, Lilly, Luxi, and Veda; nephews Robert Yack and Garvin (Kelly) Yack; and niece Cindy (Art) Wilson-Pizzello.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Robert H. Yack, Garry Yack of Kalamazoo, and Marvin G. Yack; and her great-grandson, Elijah Wilkes.

A memorial service celebrating Arlene's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Family and friends are invited to share their thoughts and memories of Arlene at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.