Yolanda Kilian Butler

Yolanda Kilian Butler, age 88, passed peacefully in Snowflake, AZ on June 12, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Born in Auburn, NY, on August 29, 1936, to Walter and Mary Kilian, she is survived by her husband John Butler and her sister Debora Licamele of Syracuse, NY, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and numerous friends. She was predeceased by her brother, Walter Kilian JR, and sister Roberta Kolis.

After completing elementary and high school in Auburn, she earned AA, BS and MS degrees in New York State and an additional MS from George Washington University. Yolanda was a teacher in New York and Maryland, Scholarship Counselor in Montana and Social Services Director and Acting Director of the Head Start Program in Kansas City, Missouri. She elected to depart the work force at age 40!

She found enjoyment in simple pleasures of life such as gardening, fishing, boating, cooking, camping, and spending time with family and friends. Collecting antique music boxes, reading and playing games were other passions. Additionally, she was very active in volunteer, community and church activities wherever she lived.

In 1995, a wandering spirit resulted in her spending 16 years exploring North America, in a motorhome, with her husband. After her motorhoming adventure ended, she divided time between Show Low, AZ and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Cruising, especially transoceanic cruises, also helped satisfy her wandering spirit post motorhome years.

A funeral mass will be offered at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church, at 11:00 AM, on August 29, 2025. The church is located at 1915 E. Penrod Lane in Pinetop, AZ. Interment will follow at Angels Rest Columbarium, adjacent to the Church.

After interment, a Celebration of Life will follow at the Lotus Garden Restaurant, located at 984 E White Mountain Blvd in Pinetop, less than a mile from the church. Family and friends are invited to attend. An opportunity to share stories, memories, and lunch will be provided. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer's Association or your local hospice. 

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