Joyce Ann Yake

Joyce Ann Yake, 60, of Fishers, passed away at home on Saturday, November 26, 2022.  She was born on August 7, 1962 in Oak Park, IL to the late Wesley Henry and Janeise Rose (Burgess) Hendee.  Her family moved to Indianapolis, Indiana in June, 1973.

Joyce completed her education at North Central High School and J. Everett Light Career Center, graduating in 1980.

She was married to Greg Buchanan in 1980 and they had one child, Tiffany in 1981. They lived in Texas for a time, where they were both involved with working as youth directors for their church. They moved back to Indiana in 1985 and divorced that same year.

Joyce worked in the family business, Wes Hendee Copier One, started by her father, for a time.

Joyce met her current husband, Donavon Yake, in 1992. They were married February 27, 1993 and built a home in Fishers, Indiana in 1999.

Joyce had an overwhelming love for animals. She always had a large mix of dogs and cats filling their home. Joyce and Donavon were interested in vegetable gardening for a time, as well maintaining and improving their home. She enjoyed cooking and was always trying new recipes; making them to the recipe originally, and “tweaking” it if they enjoyed it enough to make it again.  Joyce had a passion for writing poetry. This was a private hobby of hers that she didn’t share with many people. She would occasionally post some on social media when she felt in need of sharing her emotions at the time.

Joyce will be remembered for her tender heart and kindness. This extended to her family and love of all animals.

Joyce is survived by her husband of nearly 30 years, Donavon Yake; daughter Tiffany Buchanan (Kevin Hedger); lifelong friend, RoxAnn Ross (Von); siblings, Kim Hendee, Karen Shank, Richard Hendee (Lavonne), Sheila Birsfield (Jeff); aunt, Dorothy Caputo; 3 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; fur babies, Kali, Kolton, Kismet, Bella, Oscar and Loki.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, and brother-in-law, David Shank.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will be held on Saturday, December 3rd, at MCL Cafeteria, 5520 Castle Corner Lane, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250, from 1:30pm until 3:30pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are encouraged to the Hamilton County Humane Society (hamilitonhumane.com) or the Indy Great Pyrenees Rescue (igpr.org).