Obituary of Jerry Wilson YASKIW

YASKIW, Jerry “Jake” Jan 4, 1948- June 2, 2016 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Jerry (Jake) Wilson Yaskiw at the age of 68 years old. Jake is survived by his wife of 41 years Colleen, his children Nolan (Leila) and Faren and his granddaughters Blythe, Lennon and Skylar. He is also survived by his brothers Ron (Pat) and Bob (Lynne) Yaskiw and brother and sister in law Lorna and Vern Maerz, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Harry and Mary and his brother Rick. Jake was born in Rossburn Manitoba January 4, 1948 into a strong Ukranian family, where he developed his love for Ukranian dance, music, pierogis and cabbage rolls. His first language was Ukranian and he wasn’t taught English until he needed to learn it for grade school. At the age of 21 years, Jake moved to Regina to attend RCMP training, a move that started a 25 year career in law enforcement, with over 14 of those in the RCMP. While a member, Jake had postings in Killam, Three Hills, Red Deer, Ponoka and Andrew. It was during his posting in Three Hills that Jake met Colleen Helton in 1971 and the two were married May 3, 1975. Jake and Collen proudly welcomed their son Nolan in 1982 and daughter Faren in 1986. In his younger years, Jake had a real passion for many different sports and activities. He taught Ukranian dance as a teenager, he played on numerous curling and softball teams over the years, and he also enjoyed playing golf and going fishing. One of Jake’s largest passions in his spare time was anything to do with music, which included not only listening to music but also being able to play 7 different instruments. Jake had an innate desire for helping others and beyond his career in law enforcement, he also volunteered on the Strathmore fire department for many years. Since his passing, friends have expressed their memories of Jake being a gentle and compassionate person, a captivating story teller and always ready with a new joke or to share legal advice. Jake had an amazing memory and even decades after leaving law enforcement he could still quote section numbers of the highway traffic act and criminal code. His family fondly remembers Jake as a simple, yet extraordinary man who preferred spending intimate time with close family and friends, over larger social gatherings. There are many special memories of fishing adventures, long dog walks, canal floats, river visits, West Ed trips, and family gatherings listening to Jake play the accordion. In his later years he enjoyed quieter activities such as crossword and Sudoku puzzles, tending to his dog Toby, and spending time with his family. Our hearts will forever be missing a piece, but we will honour your memory by remembering to take the time to enjoy the little things in life and to always appreciate a good home cooked meal. Family and friends are invited to join us for a funeral service and snacks at Hope Community Covenant Church (245 Brent Blvd Strathmore AB) on Tuesday June 7th, 2016 at 1pm. To send condolences, please click on the link below or send emails directly to condolences@wheatlandfuneralhome.ca Send Condolences