August 20, 1969 – June 18, 2023
With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking news of the unexpected passing of our beloved Laura Ann Linhart Yanich. On June 18, 2023, she departed this world, joining our Heavenly Father.
A memorial service, dedicated to celebrating Laura’s remarkable life, will be held at New Hope Ministries in Naples, Florida on Saturday, July 15th at 4 pm. It is an opportunity for all who knew and loved her to come together, to pay tribute and find solace in one another’s company. In honoring Laura’s deep affection for the beautiful Florida surroundings, we kindly request that attendees wear Tropical Floridian Flair, symbolizing the vibrant spirit she embodied.
In Loving Memory of Laura Ann Linhart Yanich
August 20, 1969 – June 18, 2023
On June 18, 2023, Laura Ann Linhart, a beacon of sunshine within her community and family was taken from us at the age of 53. She was a beloved wife, devoted mother, loyal daughter, loving sister, fun-loving aunt, cousin, relative and a tremendously giving friend. Laura’s infectious joy and unwavering dedication made her an incredible teacher, deeply cherished by her students, faculty, and staff. Her presence in the classroom was a source of inspiration, and her positive attitude left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her. The sudden loss of Laura has left an immense hole within our hearts. We struggle to comprehend the depth of this loss. Serving as a reminder of the remarkable person she was, Laura’s kindness, joyful personality, and unwavering compassion for others will forever remain ingrained in our memories.
Laura was born on August 20, 1969, in Erie, PA to her adoring parents, Margaret and Ray Linhart. She shared a special bond with her older sister, Angela Linhart Ashley, and her younger brother, Christopher Linhart. Growing up, Laura cherished spending time with her family bringing laughter and joy to those special moments. Her fondness for playing Scrabble, listening to Jimmy Buffet, and dancing the night away with her cousins, aunts, and uncles created treasured memories.
Laura graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in South Bend, Indiana. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Indiana University and Master’s in Education from DePaul University. Laura began her teaching career in Chicago, Illinois. Laura embraced Spanish culture and loved to travel abroad. Blessed with an adventurous nature, Laura traveled to Spain, Mexico, and Brazil. Laura was fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.
During the summer of 2005, Laura was living in Indiana and began working alongside her father at the Ray Skillman Auto Group. It was during this time that she met her husband Daniel Paul Yanich. Danny and Laura embarked on life’s journey together with lots of love, fun, and adventures. They wed on a beautiful fall day in October 2009. Laura and Danny truly enjoyed their life in Indiana. Laura taught Spanish at Roncalli High School in Indianapolis. During this time, Laura and Danny started a family. On December 20, 2011, Adam James was born. Laura and Danny were overjoyed to have a son. She devoted her life to AJ. Laura was so proud of AJ and seized every opportunity she could to be present in his life. She attended his games, practices, school events, arranged play dates, took him to the zoo, and of course spent time on the beach. Danny, AJ, and Laura loved Indiana Pacers basketball and Indianapolis Colts football. Danny and Laura had a dream of living in Florida and retiring to the sunshine and warm breezes of the Florida coast. They sold their house and all their furniture and moved to southwest Florida. Laura was a teacher at Marco Island Charter Middle School where she taught Spanish. Her energy, kindness, and dedication to her students was remarkable. She was an amazing teacher and went above and beyond for her students every day. She was a role model for new teachers and was a 2023 recipient of the Teacher of Distinction in Collier County. This award is given to a teacher who is “willing to share his/her practice with the community and other educators, who is willing to participate in peer learning and networking, and has a practice that has resulted in demonstrable student results”. Laura was also nominated for a 2023 Golden Apple Award.
Laura’s achievements in the classroom deeply touched the lives of many students and parents in Marco Island. Always listening and smiling, Laura was adored and had a reputation for being a wonderful person. Her spirit will resonate within the hearts of many, leaving a lasting impression and positive impact. Today, as we mourn the loss of Laura, we find comfort in our memories of her. Let us remember her with the love she brought into our lives, forever keeping her spirit alive in our hearts.
Laura is survived by her husband of 14 years, Daniel Yanich, her son, Adam James, her parents, Ray and Margaret Linhart. Laura has two siblings, Angela Linhart Ashley (Pete Ashley) and Christopher Linhart (Angela Jenal Linhart). She was so proud of her nephew Andrew Ashley. She also has two nieces whom she adored: Alexandra Ashley and Kensington Paisley. Laura also leaves behind her many cousins, aunts, and uncles all who admire her vibrant personality, her impeccable taste in music, cool car Bugsy, VW convertible and her blonde & curly hair.
Diane and Bob Shawver
August 29, 2023, 6:59 am
Such a special woman. May all your wonderful memories comfort you during this heartbreaking time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jenn W
August 29, 2023, 6:59 am
Laura was one of the first people I met after moving to the Naples / Marco area. From that very first moment, I found her to be incredibly warm, kind, and giving. She was a great mother, wife, friend, and teacher because of those very traits. We offer our deepest condolences to AJ, Danny, the rest of her family and friends, and all of her students who loved her so.
With love and remembrance, Jenn & Roman
Lori Lowe and the DeLuca's
August 29, 2023, 6:59 am
With our deepest sympathies! God
Janet Price
August 29, 2023, 7:00 am
I am so sorry to hear of Laura’s passing. I was her colleague and language department chair at Roncalli High School. Her enthusiasm and love for teaching were so very apparent. She put her whole heart into whatever she did. I’m praying for her family at this difficult time. May she rest in peace.
chuck weisenbach
August 29, 2023, 7:00 am
Roncalli High School in Indianapolis, Indiana is saddened by the unexpected loss of such a vibrant, loving person. We extend our deepest condolences to the family. A candle will be lit today in our chapel in her memory and in appreciation for the fine work she did here at our school. May she now rest in peace.
Jenny Lucas
August 29, 2023, 7:00 am
With most sincere and deepest sympathy I send my love and prayers,
Eddie Mason and the MASE Training Family
August 29, 2023, 7:01 am
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. We pray that God will comfort you and your family during this difficult time.
Trisha Herzog
August 29, 2023, 7:01 am
So incredibly sorry to hear about the loss of Laura. I will always remember her smile! She adored AJ and would do anything for him. She loved her students and pushed them to be great! She will be missed!! Trisha Herzog
Susan Leep Vandersteen & John Morelli
August 29, 2023, 7:01 am
What a special lady she must of been and accomplished so much in her short life. RIP