Anita J. Yung

Anita J. Yung, of Springfield, passed away on Wednesday, July 01, 2009. She was born in Springfield, the daughter of Byron "Red" Tull and Ann Gasparin Tull. She married R. Dale Yung on February 7, 1953. He preceded her in death in 2002. Anita was a dance instructor for the Springfield College of Music from 1950 to 1955 in Virden, Auburn, and Greenview, IL. In 1955, she opened her own dance studio, The Anita Yung School of Dance and Baton in Springfield, retiring in 1997. Anita was a former member of the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters and was presented the Gold Seal Award by the National Association of Dance and Affiliated Arts for diligent study and pursuit of the subjects and modern techniques of the dance and allied arts. Anita appeared in many local variety and minstrel programs, as well as the Springfield Municipal Opera's 2nd presentation of its 1st season, "Lady Be Good." She was a guest teacher for Dance Connections held by N.A.P.A. and a judge for many talent, beauty, and pageant competitions. A beautiful and graceful lady, Anita was a loving mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children, Michael (wife, Janet) Yung of Winfield, IL, Linda (husband, Hank) Stoutamyer of Springfield, and Valarie (husband, Joe) Kager of Lithia, FL; eleven grandchildren, Nick Babiak, Angie (husband, Greg) Lyons, Mike (wife, Courtney) Babiak, Derek Ackerman, Jonathan Yung, Annie Kager, Halee Stoutamyer, Ashlee Stoutamyer, Josh Yung, Jake Kager, and Kylee Stoutamyer; two great-grandchildren, Camryn and Parker Lyons; two aunts; her uncle; a niece, a nephew, and several cousins. A private Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held by the family at a later date. Entombment at Oak Ridge Mausoleum will also be held privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cradle Society, an Adoption Agency, 2049 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL 60201. The family would like to thank the many family members and friends who have provided love and support.