Doris Yankee Obituary

Yankee, Doris Williams 89, of Lake Forest, IL, died Wednesday October 21, 2009 at Lake Forest Place after a period of failing health. She was born in Utica, NY on June 30, 1920, the daughter of William and Ruth Williams. She graduated as Valedictorian from Utica Free Academy in 1937 and graduated magna cum laude/ Phi Beta Kappa from Barnard College in 1941 majoring in Religion and Philosophy. She later did graduate study in Religion at Smith College and Community Organization at the University of Chicago's School for Social Service Administration. Mrs. Yankee was a professional fundraiser for the majority of her career including being the Associate Director for Vassar College's Capital Campaign from 1970-1973, Resources Consultant for Planned Parenthood Federation of America from 1973-1977, the Vice President for Public Affairs at Barnard College from 1977-1979, Associate Executive Director for Planned Parenthood of New York City from 1980-1983, and Director of Development at Planned Parenthood Association/ Chicago Area from 1983-1985. Mrs. Yankee was also a Lecturer on Comparative and Oriental Religions at Smith College[1948-1950], Williams College[1954-1956], and Lake Forest College[1966-1969]. Mrs. Yankee was involved in numerous civic activities including a Trustee at the Ferry Hall School for Girls-now Lake Forest Academy-from 1961-1968, a member of the Women's College Board of Chicago from 1961-1968, a member of the Special Committee to Study the Status of Women in Church and Society sponsored by the United Presbyterian Church from 1968-1969, and a member of the Board of Directors of Operations Crossroads Africa- the organization that was the model for today's Peace Corps-from 1967-1970. A passionate and constructively feisty woman, she was active in promoting women's rights in the 1940's in Morningside Heights in New York City with her friend and leader of the "Women's Movement" Betty Friedan. A staunch believer in civil rights,she marched with Martin Luther King in Selma, AL in March of 1965. An adviser and friend to legions of college students throughout her life, she was respected and adored by many. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, wife, and friend and will be greatly missed. Predeceased by her husband, Herbert Warren Yankee, she is survived by sons William Graham Cole Jr. of Simsbury CT, Edward M. Cole of Lake Bluff, IL, Stephen S. Cole of Wilmette, IL, brother Robert S. Williams of Clifton Park, NY, sisters Carolyn W. Leone of Clearwater, FL, Edith W. Thoni of Oklahoma City, OK and six grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 28, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the Lake Forest College Chapel, 555 N. Sheridan Road Lake Forest, IL. Please omit flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Planned Parenthood of Illinois or Barnard College in New York City. Info. Wenban Funeral Home, Lake Forest, IL (847) 234-0022 or www.wenbanfh.com.