Yolanda Glaeser

Yolanda Glaeser passed away on September 28, 2026 at the age of 65.

A fighter, a competitor, a self-learner, a devoted wife and mother, a loving daughter and sister, and a treasured friend, Yolanda Gagaza Glaeser lived a life defined by strength, determination, resilience, and an unwavering love for her family.

Yolanda was born on July 15, 1961, on the island of Leyte in the Philippines and moved to the United States with her family when she was just three years old. From an early age, Yolanda learned the tenacity that would become a defining part of who she was. No matter the challenge in front of her, she faced it head-on and always found a way forward. Her life would unfold in remarkable chapters, from the hard work of picking strawberries in the fields, to contributing to classified scientific research, to becoming an accomplished athlete, trainer, and mentor to others.

Each chapter reflected the qualities that defined Yolanda throughout her life. She was disciplined, courageous, and never afraid to challenge herself. She was largely self-taught and had an extraordinary ability to decide she wanted to do something, learn how to do it, and give it everything she had. She was always striving to become the best version of herself and the best person she could be for the people she loved.

Yolanda believed in pushing herself to her fullest potential, not simply to win, but to discover what was possible when she gave something her all. She became an award-winning bodybuilder, climbed Half Dome and Mount Whitney, completed numerous half marathons and a marathon, competed in Spartan races, and even taught herself to swim so she could take on triathlons. Yolanda rarely kept what she learned to herself. As a trainer, she helped others prepare for many of those same challenges, motivating them, training alongside them, and helping them discover their own potential. Her achievements were many, though perhaps one of her greatest was how many people she inspired to conquer things they once may not have believed they could.

Yolanda shared a beautiful life with her husband, Christopher. They met on Halloween, which perfectly captured the spirit they would carry throughout their marriage. Together, they embraced every opportunity to celebrate life, often with a theme, surrounded by family, friends, and community. Whether the occasion was big or small, Yolanda and Christopher knew how to make it memorable and, most importantly, enjoy it together.

Above all, Yolanda was a devoted mother. She was deeply involved in the lives of her two daughters, Dani and Andi. She always showed up, encouraged them, supported their interests, instilled confidence, and modeled extraordinary strength. She took tremendous pride in being their mom and in the women they became.

This pride and joy only grew as her family did. Becoming a grandmother brought a new and special chapter to her life. She cherished every moment, every phone call, and every photograph of her four grandchildren, Roman, Avery, Theseus, and Jaden. She loved them deeply and delighted in being part of their lives.

Yolanda also loved music, decorating for the holidays, staying active, and, of course, cheering on the San Francisco 49ers. Yolanda will be deeply missed for the energy and laughter she brought to life, the dedication she brought to everything she pursued, and the fierce love and loyalty she gave to the people she called her own.

Yolanda is survived by her husband, Christopher; her daughters, Dani and Andi; and her four beloved grandchildren, Roman, Avery, Theseus, and Jaden. Her strength, resilience, and love will live on through the family she was so proud of and the many lives she touched.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Forest Meadows Funeral Home 725 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville FL 32609