Sanford A. Yeomans

Sanford Arnold Yeomans, 87, of Ionia, died Saturday, February 15, 2025, at his home on the family farm. Sanford was born June 20, 1937, to Edwin and Elizabeth (McKendry) Yeomans, in his parents’ home on the same farm in Easton Township.

Sanford graduated from Ionia Public Schools in 1955, then attended Michigan State University for an Agricultural Short Course. Sanford returned to the family dairy farm after college, working with his father and younger brother Russell. After college, Sanford also served in the National Guard. Sanford married Janet Hickok on March 7, 1959. She was the love of his life, and he remained her devoted husband for 63 years.

After transitioning to poultry, Sanford and Russell were partners in Yeomans Egg Farm for over a quarter of a century. For the rest of his agricultural career, Sanford diversified into contract farming.

Farming and agriculture were a mainstay in Sanford’s life. He was very active in FFA in high school and later served on many Farm Bureau and poultry industry boards.

Sanford’s capacity for hard work was matched only by his quick wit, sense of humor, and enjoyment of friends and family. Sanford and Janet traveled widely and enjoyed spending many winters in Florida.

Sanford was preceded in death by his beloved wife Janet, his parents, his brother Russell Yeomans, Janet’s parents Glenn and Esther Hickok, and her brother Bill Hickok. He is survived by his children, Gregg and Gale (Ludwick) Yeomans, Brenda and Bob Dufresne, his grandchildren Dan and Elina (Mukherjee) Yeomans and Amanda Dufresne, and great-grandchildren Maya Yeomans, Ashtyn Dufresne, and Emberly Curtiss, as well as special niece Beth (Yeomans) Thomas. Sanford is also survived by his dear friend and sister-in-law Ardith Marino.

The Funeral Service honoring Sanford will be officiated by Pastor Nancy Patera at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Lehman Funeral Home, 220 Rich Street, Ionia. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Those wishing may make contributions to the Ionia Community Library Foundation in memory of Sanford, Ionia Community Library Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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