Yvonne Estelle Haugen

Yvonne Haugen, 74, passed away on May 20, 2025, after a nearly decade-long battle with breast cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family and close friends at the time of her passing and leaves behind many whose lives she touched deeply.

Yvonne was born on July 20, 1950, in Vancouver, Washington, to Charles and Elma Shaffer. She grew up in southern Washington and was especially close to her father. As a child, she was known for her fearless spirit and tomboy nature—never afraid to punch a boy in the face if she felt he had it coming.

After graduating from Ridgefield High School, she moved to the Centralia area, where she worked as a waitress at King Solomon’s Restaurant during the 1970s. She loved sharing stories from that time—especially about learning Arabic and Chinese from the kitchen staff, though she joked that she only remembered the curse words.

In 1984, Yvonne relocated with her family to Two Rivers, Alaska—also known as Pleasant Valley—near Fairbanks. There, she worked at Tack’s General Store and quickly embraced the Alaskan lifestyle. She developed a passion for dog mushing, camping, soaking in the Chena Hot Springs, and attending events at the local Grange.

In the 1990s, She purchased and operated the Steese Contract Post Office near Fox, Alaska. She ran it until her retirement in 2023. She also enjoyed spending time with Brian, who she loved deeply.

In her later years, Yvonne enjoyed gardening, bowling, playing darts, and participating in the Women Pioneers of Alaska. But above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren and family.

Yvonne was preceded in death by her brother, John, who passed away when she was a child. She is survived by her sisters, Darlene and Carol; her children, Dana and Joshua.

Yvonne wished to be cremated and laid to rest beside her father at Mountain View Cemetery. Per her request, no formal services will be held. Instead, she asked that those who remember her take a moment to smile, share a funny story, and cherish the time they spent together.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mary Ann and Claire, whose love and support went far beyond what anyone could ever ask for in a friend.