With a deep sadness, we share the passing of Deanna Kay Yu, whose Lutheran spirit returned home on September 23, 2026. The memorial service will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 2 - 3 pm at Green Hills Memorial Chapel (27501 S. Western Ave, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, 90275). A short reception will be held off-site. Details will be provided at the service.

Born in 1939 to Gerald Duane Axtell and Naomi Florence Axtell (Hardin) in Great Bend, Kansas, Deanna was one of four children. At 18, Deanna left Kansas for Colorado, where she trained to become an LVN. It was there that she met Kunchoon Yu, a young Korean man who did not speak English. Their lack of a shared language did not limit their souls’ ability to communicate, as they formed an unexpected, yet extraordinary connection and married in 1958. Deanna followed her heart and trusted her faith to guide her. She was deeply in love, and she believed in Kun’s promise to love her and take care of her. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, and family.

The life that followed was anything but ordinary. Together, Deanna and Kunchoon traveled to more than 60 countries, living across continents with their children, Jerry & Jacquelyn. After some time in St Louis, MO, they spent several years in Korea, where Deanna learned the language and embraced the new customs. Korean culture would become so comforting to Deanna that in her later years, watching Korean dramas was one of her favorite past times.

In 1976, Deanna and her family moved to Palos Verdes, where she would live until she passed. She spent her days dedicating herself to her family, and to her Lutheran community. The joy she found in supporting those around her was profound. Whether she was assisting one of her granddaughter’s Brownie troops, enjoying a musical performance from her grandson and granddaughter, or leading a prayer team at church, Deanna was truly born to care for those around her.

Deanna is survived by her children, Dr. Jerry Yu (Laurita) and Jacquie Starodub (Peter); her grandchildren, Elizabeth Kim, Caitlin Buda (John), Joshua Yu (Joyce Han) and Dr. Hannah Yu; her great-granddaughter, Summer Buda; and her brother, Jim Axtell. She is preceded in death by her husband, Kunchoon Yu; her parents, Gerald and Naomi Axtell; her siblings, Margie Emerson and David Axtell; and her former son-in-law, Richard Kim. She will be joined in Heaven by her beloved dog, Gracie Kay.

We will miss her very much.