Yolanda Babij was born on April 1, 1937, and passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025 at the age of 87 while in hospice care at the White Cliffs Assisted Living Facility in Kingman, Arizona.  A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 2:00 pm the Little Prairie Cemetery north of Dunseith.  There will be a time of lunch and fellowship at the Kelvin Klinic following the service.

She was the second child of Theodoro and Carmen (Moreno) Babij, entering a vibrant family that included an elder sister and two younger brothers in Colombia, South America. Yolanda often reminisced about her joyful childhood, filled with laughter and playful adventures with her siblings, their antics bringing a sparkle to her eyes as she shared tales of their youthful mischief.

Her education took root in Colombia, and she also embraced life in Costa Rica for a period before embarking on her journey to the United States. In New Jersey, she married her first husband and proudly became a citizen of the United States of America on March 4, 1969, a milestone she held dear. This first marriage eventually ended in divorce, but it paved the way for new beginnings.

Throughout her life, Yolanda moved through various states, including New Jersey, California, and Arizona, each state adding a vibrant chapter to her story. Eventually, she found love again with Charlie McDaniel, a widower, and together they created a warm and welcoming home, nurturing his children as their own. Once the children had grown, Yolanda and Charlie delighted in traveling to new destinations, sharing laughter and joy along the way. They ultimately settled in the serene surroundings of Kingman, Arizona, where they enjoyed the comforts of home until Charlie's passing from cancer. Even after his departure, Yolanda continued to thrive in Kingman, carrying forward the cherished memories of a life well-lived.

While living in Kingman, she met and married her beloved Jimmy Metcalfe on May 28th, 1999. Together, they purchased a beautiful new home nestled in the heart of Kingman, where they cherished countless gatherings with their beloved friends and family over the years. Among their dearest companions were Wayne and Ana Preston, with whom they shared delightful dinners, spirited rounds of golf, and endless evenings filled with card games.

Yolanda cherished the moments she spent in her yard, finding joy and comfort in the beauty of her surroundings. She had a passion for nurturing her vibrant flower gardens, which burst with color and fragrance. Each morning she found joy in feeding the birds that flocked to her yard, particularly her favorites, the quails. Nothing was ever wasted in her hands; left over bread, rice, and even French fries were repurposed into hearty meals for her feathered friends. Each year, Tootles the turtle would make his grand return, eagerly feasting on the flower petals that Yolanda lovingly provided.

Adding to the warmth of their home was their furry companion, Goofy, their adored cat, who held a special place in their hearts. Whether on summer travels in their trusty camper or simply lounging at home, Goofy was always a part of their adventures. Their home was where cherished memories were made, where friends felt like family, and all creatures, great and small, were welcomed with open arms.

Yoli faced a profound challenge when she developed Chronic Kidney Disease, embarking on a brave 12-year journey of receiving dialysis three times a week. As the years passed, the treatment grew increasingly difficult, but Yoli remained steadfast in her commitment, driven by her deep love for Jim. The thought of leaving him behind was simply unimaginable for her.

When Jim sadly passed away in September 2024, Yoli's heart was broken. The ache of his absence was overwhelming, as she struggled to navigate life without him. In search of connection and comfort, she moved to the White Cliffs Assisted Living Facility, where her dear friend Magdalena also resided, hoping to find peace in their shared companionship during this challenging time.

Yolanda was a radiant and nurturing soul, whose beauty shone through her warm smile and optimistic spirit. She had an extraordinary ability to find the silver lining in every situation and a genuine love for life that inspired those around her. Her kindness touched many hearts, and she will be profoundly missed by the countless friends and family who cherished her. Among them is Debbie Valentine, a treasured friend who shared a remarkable bond with Yolanda for over 50 years.

Yolanda is survived by her older sister Olga Babij De Serrano of Costa Rica; two younger brothers Hugo Babij of New Jersey, Jaime Babij of Columbia So. America; stepdaughters Cheryl Evans of Dunseith, ND; Rosann (George) Gottbreht of Dunseith, ND and Jennifer Metcalfe of Renton, WA; 6 nieces and nephews, Jims 4 grandchildren and 9 great children who she always considered to be her family.

Yolanda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and step-son-in law, Jim Evans.