Yvette Irene Clevish
Former winter Lakeside resident Yvette Irene Clevish passed away on August 24 in Cave Creek, Arizona.
Yvette was born on January 13, 1946, in Seattle, Washington. She became highly accomplished in the arts, beginning piano lessons at the age of four. She went on to compose, perform and publish original scores, some of which were featured on NPR.
Throughout her life, Yvette drew, painted, and sculpted images of nature, people, and scenes from Ajijic. She was also a talented equestrienne, competing in Western Pleasure, Endurance and showjumping events.
In 1965, Yvette married Ken Clevish. They moved to Philipsburg, Montana in 1973, where they operated the Chaussee Sapphire Mine until 1985. In 1975, the couple opened a successful jewelry store in Missoula, where Yvette created many exclusive designs. She earned a graduate gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America and became a certified Gemologist and Gemologist Appraiser with the American Gem Society.
Married for over 59 years, Ken and Yvette worked together in the jewelry business before retiring to Big Arm, Montana; Ajijic and Cave Creek.
Yvette is survived by her husband, Ken, and her nieces, Allison McKenzie, Roxanne Smith and Elizabeth Townsend. She was preceded in death by her sister, Jeanne Chaussee, the former Lakeside community and arts columnist for the Guadalajara Reporter.
Yvette was a woman of grace, talent, beauty, and great energy, who left a lasting impact on all who knew her. No memorial service will be held. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
Donations in her memory can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.