Yolanda Esther Rocha

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Yolanda Esther Rocha, 74, of Kansas City, KS, on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at her home. Yolanda was born the oldest of 6 children to Celia and Jesus Rocha on March 17, 1950, in Kansas City, KS. She spent her life enriching the lives of those around her with her love, tradition, and enduring connections. Yolanda’s passion for her heritage was a cornerstone of her life. She was a fervent collector of the Nativity scene, a dressmaker for the annual St. John the Divine Fiesta, and the family geneologist/historian, preserving the rich tapestry of her Mexican roots. She was instrumental in keeping the family connected to their ancestral homeland, traveling frequently to Mexico and ensuring that many of her nieces and nephews had the opportunity to meet their extended family and embrace their cultural heritage. Yolanda was extremely generous with her time. She expressed her love of the arts every week by attending a ceramics class near her home and often took her nieces and nephews with her. Professionally, Yolanda dedicated many years of service to Macy’s and Bella Hess, and later retired as a respected typographer at Boelte-Hall. Yolanda was preceded in death by her mother, Celia (2008), her father Jesus (2009), and her youngest brother, Richard (Feb 2024). She is survived by her life partner, Alex ‘Hondo’ Madrigal; stepdaughter, Andrea Madrigal; her granddaughter, Ariana Madrigal; and Patsy, her cherished dog and companion. Yolanda leaves behind 4 siblings: Jesse Rocha (Kathy), Elizabeth Bumgarner (Russ), Susie Becerra, and Robert Rocha (Rose Collin), as well as many nieces and nephews in the US. In Mexico, she is survived by Marisela and Mario Duarte, whom she thought of as a sister and brother-in-law, and with whom she chatted daily. She also leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews, and their children, all of whom loved her deeply. Services will be on Wednesday, May 15th at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 9 - 10 AM. Funeral mass will begin at 10 and will be followed by praying of the rosary. In place of flowers, please make a donation of your choice in her name.

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Yolanda Esther Rocha

March 17, 1950 - May 5, 2024