Rayora (Utzinger) Bjornstrom's Obituary
Mrs. Rayora (Utzinger) Bjornstrom, age 95, passed away on March 10, 2017 in Muskegon. She was born on March 12, 1921 in Waupaca, WI to Ray and Edith (Henrichsen) Yorkson. Rayora retired from Orchard View Schools as their long-time bookkeeper. She loved the Lord, and belonged to Temple United Methodist Church. She loved and cared for her family and friends unconditionally. Rayora enjoyed sitting and talking with people, and liked helping people. She was a strong person and a role model for women. On May 10, 1941, she married George Utzinger. After George passed away in 1970, she married Albert Bjornstrom on December 21, 1972. Dear lifetime friend, Francis Bjornstrom was matron of honor at both weddings. SURVIVORS include three sons and daughters-in-law: John (Rita) Utzinger, Roger (Maureen) Utzinger, David (Louanne) Utzinger; step daughter, Debra Kolanowski; stepson, Dan (Ellen) Bjornstrom; grandchildren, Michael (Joy) Utzinger, Tim (Michelle) Utzinger, Dan (Sandrine) Utzinger, Jeffrey (Christine) Utzinger, Eric (Cindy) Utzinger, Wendi (Matthew) Vogel, David (Jennifer) Utzinger, Joe (Jessica) Kolanowski; great grandchildren, Claire, Eve, Catherine, Emily, Madison, JD, Britton, Lauren, Jennifer, Jeffrey, George, Matilyn, Ellery, David, Katelyn and Isaac; nieces and nephews, of the Medema, Yorkson and Utzinger families; sister-in-law, Betty Bjornstrom; and friend and caregiver, Karen Mendiola. Rayora was preceded in death by husbands, George Utzinger and Albert Bjornstrom; brother, Donald Yorkson; parents, Ray and Edith Yorkson; and step son-in-law, Joe Kolanowski. A special thank you to the staff of Lake Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Muskegon. A service will be celebrated this summer, and will be announced at a later time. Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St. (231) 798-1100.
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