Bert (Albert) Yaunke of Ontonagon, MI passed away on May 12, 2009. He was born to August and Olive (LeMere) Yaunke on September 29th of 1924.

Bert was a war veteran who guarded prisoners in California during the 2nd World War and was honorably discharged from the service. He married Annabelle Pollard on January 15, 1949 and they just recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. He was an avid outdoorsman whose love of nature was evidenced by the time he spent hunting, fishing and running his hounds.

Bert was the proud owner of FC Townline's Johnny Paycheck and a devoted Beagler. During the 30 years he beagled, he became a legend in the Northern Michigan Hare Association and throughout the beagling community. Bert along with his wife campaigned AKC registered beagles and finished 12 Champions over the years. In 2005, Bert and his wife, Annabelle, were the first couple inducted into the Better Beagling International Large Pack Beagling Hall of Fame. Bert was a friend, teacher and confidant to his fellow beaglers. He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by cherished wife, Annabelle. Four daughters, Sue (Sis) Knopp, Billie (BJ) Banse (Tom), Alberta (Big Girl) Wroblewski (Bob) and Mary (Lil' Mary) Oliver (Tom) who were his world. Grandfather and mentor to Mark, Todd, Amy, Derek, Missy, Clyde, Claudette, Cheryl, and Tommy. Beloved Great Grandfather to Jeremy, Ryan, Bryant, Noah, Corey, Allison, Sierra and Tristan. Also survived by siblings Mary (Moseler), Robert, Raymond Jr. and Delvon and an assortment of loving family members including nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Bert is preceded in death by his parents, multiple siblings, aunts and uncles.

Bert's family knows he is residing in his own happy hunting grounds with his hounds of the past where he can sit all day and listen to them run.

Visitation will be held at Canes Funeral home in Ontonagon, Michigan at 301 N Steel Street on Friday May 15, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and again from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday May 16, 2009. The Service will begin at 3 p.m. followed by a gathering immediately after at Cane Court located at 100 Cane Court in Ontonagon, Michigan.

Bert's obituary may be viewed and condolences left at canefuneralhome.com.