Todd J. Yandre, 61, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, following an apparent heart attack at the end of his shift. Todd was a cherished husband of nearly 40 years to Monica; devoted father to Jordan Yandre and Catherine (Peter) Schmitt; loving “Papa” to Cora, Bryn, and Zoey Schmitt; caring brother to Mark Yandre and Tammie (Eric) Garman; and loyal friend to many fellow firefighters and extended family of the community.

Todd was an active member of the Lake Mills Fire Department since 1981, transitioning to full-time firefighter in 1995. He became chief of the department in 2019. Todd was a strong leader in the fire service and earned the respect of those who had the pleasure of working with him. A lifelong learner, Todd was passionate about continuing education. Todd took any and all training made available to him.

He eventually earned a degree in emergency management, with an emphasis in fire safety, from Lakeshore Technical College. Todd’s belief in continued education was also evident in his career as an instructor in the fire service field at Madison College for over 20 years. Additionally, Todd served on the Madison College’s Fire Advisory Board for 22 years. He was an active supporter when the college created their new facility for fire training. Todd touched countless students, training them to be excellent firefighters and human beings.

Chief Yandre lived by the words of Hunter S. Thompson, “Anything worth doing, is worth doing right.” His passion for the well-being of his firefighters, their families, and the fire service will never be forgotten.