Yolande Rung

Deerfield Beach, FL – Yolande "Lonnie" Rung, 88, a cherished member of the Deerfield Beach community and a devoted military wife, passed away peacefully on June 5th, 2024.

Born Yolande Marie Margaret Juliet Moalli on August 12, 1935, in Montreal, Quebec, she immigrated with her parents, Ernest and Simonne Moalli, to Burlington, VT, at the age of 16. Quickly adapting to her new home, she embraced the English language, excelled in high school, and began her career as a bank teller.

Her life changed when she met Richard A. Rung, a dashing F-86 Sabre fighter pilot, at a local air show. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage, and she devotedly supported him through law school at Syracuse University, embarking on a lifelong journey as a military spouse.

Together, they raised three children while navigating the unique challenges of military life. The family's many relocations, including overseas postings in Italy and Spain, fostered an unbreakable bond as they relied on each other for strength and support.

Lonnie's unwavering commitment to her family and her husband's military career was a testament to her resilience and love. Even during his deployments, including a combat tour in Vietnam, she remained a steadfast anchor for her children.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Colonel Rung. She is survived by her loving family, who will cherish her memory. Her children are Michael Rung (LizAnne), Bruce Rung (Jodie), and Colette "Coco" Burns (Mike). She is also survived by her sister, Francine McKenzie, grandchildren RJ, Danielle, Adleigh, and Richard, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Life Well-Lived

Lonnie's vibrant personality and adventurous spirit shone through in every aspect of her life. She embraced each new experience with enthusiasm, forging lifelong friendships wherever she went. Her warmth, generosity, and charisma will forever be cherished by those who knew her.

In her later years, Lonnie found solace and joy in the Deerfield Beach community. She especially enjoyed playing tennis with her girlfriends for many years, attending church on Sundays, seeing the latest movies, celebrating milestones, cooking for family and friends, and meeting new people. She shared her wisdom, humor, elegant fashion, and zest for life with everyone she met. Her presence was a gift, and her memory will forever be cherished by those she leaves behind.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church (5201 North Deerfield Beach, FL 33064) on Thursday, June 13th at 10:30 AM.

A Celebration of Life, immediately following the Mass, will be held at Deer Creek Golf Club in the Deer Creek Grille (2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442). Please RSVP to [email protected].

A graveside service at Arlington National Cemetery with a military chaplain will be announced at a later date.