Genevieve Yaple

Genevieve Lamarca Yaple (Oberhausen), lovingly known by many titles throughout her life, passed away peacefully surrounded by love. Born January 23, 1929, in Centralia, IL she was the daughter of Edward and Aline (Bryant) Oberhausen. She later made her home in Vicksburg, where she built a life filled with family, friendship, generosity, and laughter.

Genevieve was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Lewis M. Yaple, whom she married on March 9, 1948; her cherished daughter, Cheryl Christine, who passed away at the age of 20; her adopted daughter and dearest friend, Darlene Cole, who was not only a confidante but also a devoted caregiver for many years; as well as four sisters and one brother.

Genevieve dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She was happiest when doing something kind for someone else, whether it was offering a helping hand, sharing her wisdom, or filling a home with the comforting smell of fresh baked goods. She was famous for her peanut brittle and homemade caramels during Christmastime, along with brownies and pies that family and friends eagerly anticipated year after year. One thing she could never seem to keep stocked was enough ice cream for herself.

She was witty, outspoken, and never afraid to speak her mind. Her sharp sense of humor and quick comebacks brought joy and laughter to those around her. Genevieve loved taking car rides through the countryside, sharing stories and the history of Vicksburg, the community she loved deeply. She enjoyed fishing at Bloody Run and spending quiet evenings watching Hallmark movies.

Though Genevieve once believed she would never experience the joy of being a grandmother after losing her daughter Cheryl, God blessed her abundantly through an extended family that became the center of her world. She leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and recently received the joyful news that she would soon become a triple great-grandmother.

Genevieve proudly donated her body to science through Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) in Kalamazoo, with burial to take place at a later date.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am on June 10, 2026, at Cornerstone Pentecostal Church, located at 1809 Romence Road, Portage, Michigan.

In honor of Genevieve's life and the compassionate care she received, memorial donations may be made to Elara Caring Hospice as a token of gratitude for the dignity and kindness shown to her during her final days.

Genevieve held many titles to the countless people blessed by her love and presence - mother, grandma, great-grandma, aunt, friend, baker, storyteller, and protector. Above all, she was deeply loved and will be missed dearly by all who knew her.