Yvonne M Polumbaum

Yvonne Polumbaum, her first grandchild called her “Ga” and so did almost everyone, died (she hated euphemisms) at home of cancer on June 20th surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.
Yvonne was born in Detroit, MI to Roger and Pearl Roy and raised with her 5 siblings: Bill, Ron, Denise, Colette, and Chris. After graduating from Utica High School, Yvonne worked as a civilian bookkeeper at the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Command in Warren, MI where she met her husband, Peter. He was a First Lieutenant attached to the Finance Corps.
During the first 16 years of their 54+ year marriage, as Peter pursued his civilian career, they moved 8 times. Yvonne always made the “most” of every move: finding and making a home, establishing lasting friendships, selecting schools, volunteering in each new community. She was the special “glue” that held their growing family together.
Within 4 years Yvonne and Peter had 2 beautiful daughters, Dana Lyn & Sara Dawn. When Sara was born Yvonne was told she could not have any more children. Ten years later they welcomed Laurel Adrian – what an unexpected gift.
Yvonne and Peter have happily resided in West Springfield for 38 years. They have 6 wonderful grandchildren: Liam, Lydia, Evelyn, Amelia, Eva and Norah. Each of them and their friends’ families lovingly called Yvonne “Ga”.
Yvonne received her Associates Degree from Holyoke Community College at the age of 41 and was accepted to Amherst College. Unfortunately, during her initial semester, her Mom became very ill and she chose to withdraw to help care for her.
Yvonne served as Treasurer of Peter’s Company. She was truly self-taught – an avid reader who loved learning new things. As the years passed, Yvonne’s life expanded with new interests, more friends, continued community service and travel to faraway places.
Her family will forever keep Yvonne’s love, grace, joy, happiness and wisdom close. Now, “her breath is in the sunshine & her hand is in the wind.”
In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to Baystate Health Foundation for the D’Amour Healing Garden at BMC, 280 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01199.
Calling hours will be held at Toomey-O’Brien Funeral Home (1043 Westfield Street, West Springfield, MA) Tuesday, July 2nd, from 4:00-6:00pm.
A private celebration of Yvonne’s life will be held at a later date.