Edna M. Yahnke (94) of Freeport died on Thursday, May 18, 2017 in Rockford. Born September 4, 1922 to Edward and Fannie Grabow, Edna had fond memories of a childhood on her family's farm. She graduated from Shannon High School and later wed the late Raymond F. Yahnke. They had 3 sons. Edna and Ray owned and operated Galaxy Photo in Freeport. She was a long-time resident of Medina Manor Nursing Center.

A well-read woman, Edna took pride in being a self-taught naturalist with a special love for owls. She was a skilled cook and gardener who took joy in sharing her love of nature and homemade meals with her beloved family.

Edna was preceded in death by her husband and infant son, Raymond, Jr; siblings, Glenn and Lola; daughter-in-law, Alice; and niece, Fran. Edna is survived by sons, Tom Sr. (Maureen) and Richard (Brenda); sister-in-law, Deloris; six grandchildren and respective spouses; fifteen great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren, and two nephews.

Visitation will be at Walker Mortuary in Freeport on Friday, May 26, 2017 from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Burial following.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to National Audubon Society, Inc.; Pecatonica Prairie Trail, Medina Manor Nursing Center or your favorite charity. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.