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David Patrick Joseph Yanor

February 27, 1949 - January 19, 2024

Obituary

Passed away tragically on the morning of January 19, 2024 in Osoyoos. He was 74. Born in Montreal in 1949, he went on to obtain a BA English (Hons) at the University of Western Ontario where he held the record for longest javelin throw. He settled in Osoyoos in 2006 to care for his elderly mother.

Shortly after, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer which he battled valiantly until he was taken by fire. He lived a fit lifestyle, characterized by epic walks in the desert. He had a keen sense of humour and loved spending time on his boat on Lake Osoyoos. He was a crusader for the environment and was proud of his vocabulary and autodidacticism (look it up, he would have said). A true bibliophile, David was passionate about books and newspapers, which led to a later career as an editor of independent books. Pre-deceased by his parents Richard and Patricia Yanor, and his siblings Stephen, Peter and Pamela. He is survived by six brothers and sisters. He will be missed by many, including: his former wife Michelle; his children Stephen (Michelle) and Angèle (Neil); and by his grandchildren Tori, Demi, Tate and Atlas.

“Give me the splendid, silent sun with all his beams full-dazzling” – Walt Whitman

Memorial donations may be made to the BC Cancer Society or Osoyoos Fire Rescue.

Condolences

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Pages: 12

From: Kettle Valley Memorial Services

The Kettle Valley Memorial staff send our condolences to family and friends.

From: Al Stewart
Relation: Friend

Sorry to hear. Yes David was truly autodidactic…he was constantly archiving his newspaper clippings in his pursuit of knowledge. He was also a true jack-of-all trades and walked his own path. Farewell David and RIP!

From: Irene Wallis
Relation: Special Friend

Words cannot express the grief and sorrow my sweet love. We had our day in the sun….So many adventures, hand in hand…
Heartfelt condolences to all. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know how very proud he was his family, delighting in your many achievements.
Til we meet again…
Forever in my heart…
Yours, Irene

From: Val and Harvey
Relation: Friend

Our sincerest condolences to Irene and Dave’s family. We will remember Dave with fondness, his knowledge of the English language amazed me, the poems he used to read to us and the fun times we had at Irene’s place ours and his in Osoyoos.. Rest softly my dear friend, till we meet again.. Val and Harvey

From: Sharon Armstrong
Relation: We were special friends, " partners in crime" He would say.say...

David came in and out of my life for a reason. He brought me to a new level of happiness and healing when I was in my darkest days. Those epic hikes and nature walks, the many sailboat cruises, and family reunions, just to name a few.

I will never forget you, David, for just being you. Thankyou for being part of my life.

Sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Stephen, Angele, and all the rest of your family.

May you rest in peace now with your parents and your siblings that have gone before you.

As ever
Sharon Armstrong

From: Grant and Jennifer Wiancko and Family.

Sincere Condolence to the Family. Wishing you comfort, peace and courage as you go forward with the memories of your well loved Father and friend in your hearts.

From: Camden Mackay
Relation: Honorary Grandpa

Still trying to process all this, I am absolutely heartbroken! I will always remember our amazing hikes and sailing expeditions. I am so very thankful for all your love, support and efforts toward my becoming a “wise man”..I know Austin and I were hoping to climb that mountain with you and we will with you in our hearts.. you meant so very much to all of us, our Grandma too!
Love Camden and Austin

From: Lois Janzen
Relation: I’m a friend of his girlfriend Irene

My condolences to family & friends of David. I personally have never met David, but have observed how much he meant to my girlfriend, Irene, in the past 5 years. I have been friends with Irene for 40 yrs & her caring, loving nature, I’m sure was a huge attraction for David. I know she will miss him dearly, as will everyone who knew him. Rest in peace David . Blessings & Prayers Lois

From: Steve Yanor
Relation: Son

Dad, I am so sorry that you died that way. We sure had some good times. Here is a video I made for you → https://youtu.be/YW0hFrM3F_0

From: Michelle Jacqueline St Louis
Relation: He was my former husband of 27 years and the father of our children.

It is an understatement to say that my heart is broken. We met at the University of Waterloo in 1969. He was kind, funny and the best looking second year student at St Jerome’s College. He carried a heavy trunk to my room at Notre Dame College, he asked me to a dance, we dated, fell in love and the rest is history. We raised two beautiful children, Stephen and Angele, who were his pride and joy. Although we parted ways, we kept in touch over the years and shared news about our children and grandchildren. David loved life and lived it with passion. He was a masterful storyteller, wonderful father, dutiful son, affectionate grandfather, loyal brother and special friend who left us far too soon. We miss him so very much.
Michelle

Pages: 12

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