LEN YAUK
Leonard Alexander Yauk
(1935 – 2025)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Leonard (Len) Alexander Yauk, who left us peacefully on August 12, 2025.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Len was the son of Alan and Olga Yauk and brother of Tom Yauk (all predeceased). He attended St. Paul’s College at the University of Manitoba, later earning his Bachelor of Education and Master of Education from McMaster University.
Len met the love of his life, Pearl, while beginning his teaching career in Red Rock/Nipigon, Ontario. Always in search of adventure, the two married and moved to the barren moonscape of Sudbury, Ontario, to solidify their teaching careers and raise their three children, Alec (wife Gina DaRoza), Lori (partner Peter Larsen), and Carole (husband John Stead).
Len’s career in education was truly remarkable. He played a pivotal role in merging Sudbury High School and Sheridan Technical School, becoming the founding Principal of Sudbury Secondary School, where he led over 2,000 students in the late 1970s. In 1982, his career brought him to Parry Sound, where he served as Superintendent and later Director of the West Parry Sound Board of Education. Innovative and forward-thinking, Len was honoured with the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for his significant contributions to education in Ontario.
Beyond education, Len’s entrepreneurial spirit was uniquely creative and fun. He was part-owner of the Sudbury Wolves OHL team and of Roller Country, a local roller-skating rink, ventures he shared with lifelong friends. Though not exactly profitable, they were all about enjoyment, family, and community. And for us, endless hours at the arena and rink became cherished and lively parts of family life.
Retirement did not slow Len down. A dedicated volunteer, he served as Chairman of the Hospital Board in the early 2000s, helping to establish the West Parry Sound Health Centre and the adjoining Lakeland Long-Term Care Facility—the first nursing home in Ontario built as part of a hospital. Len’s commitment to education also remained a priority, highlighted by his role as a Chair of the Board of Governors of Georgian College in the late 1990s.
Len remained active on numerous boards and committees throughout his life. Parry Sounders will also remember Len and Pearl for their pivotal roles in helping to run, and enthusiastically participate in, local charity events, from Dragon Boat races to Walks for ALS, and street hockey tournaments. In recognition of their extensive community service, both Len and Pearl received the Rotary Paul Harris Award in 2014. Len’s time in service to his community extended right into his final days. At the time of his passing, he was working on the Planning and Development Committee for the Township of Seguin, and serving as a family council member for Lakeland Long Term Care Facility.
A devout Catholic, Len was deeply involved with St. Peter’s Parish in Parry Sound and the Knights of Columbus. Known to many as the friendly face selling 50/50 tickets at bingo nights, his faith and commitment to community were constants in his life.
Outside of service, Len loved the outdoors, gardening, golfing, and especially time with Pearl. In his 90s, he was still capable of driving the ball down the fairway and celebrating the occasional birdie.
Finally, and most importantly, Len was a family man and a great friend. His love and commitment to his family was the driving force throughout his life. Family road trips covered nearly every Canadian province, all three territories, and 48 U.S. states, often at a rapid pace, earning him the nickname Let’s Go Lenny. Familiar conversations included: “Hey kids, there’s the Grand Canyon. Now let’s go!” Or “That Geyser is set to go off at any moment. Okay – Let’s Go!” His distinctive sense of humour and spirit of adventure, whether on the ski slopes, in his boat on Georgian Bay, or in the family trailer, filled our lives with laughter, countless moments to treasure, and endless stories to tell.
Together in retirement, Len and Pearl also enjoyed international travel, creating lifelong friendships and cherished memories around the globe. Most dear to him, however, were his grandchildren – Sean, Troy, Katelyn, and Ella – whose concerts, competitions, and graduations he faithfully attended. He took great joy in hosting family gatherings, always eager to cook elaborate meals to bring everyone together.
Len lived a full, generous, and adventurous life, leaving behind a legacy of love, leadership, and service. He touched countless lives, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him.
A Funeral Mass to celebrate Len’s life will be held on Monday, September 15, 10:00 A.M. at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Parry Sound. Eulogies, words of remembrance and a reception will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
For those wishing to commemorate Len’s love of golf, the Parry Sound Golf and Country Club has reserved 20 spots on Monday, September 15th, with tee times beginning at 2:00 P.M. To reserve a spot, please email [email protected]
In lieu of flowers, donations in Len’s honour may be made to the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation or to Lakeland Long Term Care in Parry Sound.
Condolences
You will be missed. Thank you for the many memories and laughter. May you rest in peace. With love and respect, Vicki
-Victoria Eves
I will miss you Len! Whenever we tell each other we have lots to discuss. Although you were handling it the last ofp Pearl not being able to be close to you was greatly stressing you out. You were a super human being and I know you’re in heaven right now. When Pearl is called home she will be with you. We never lose the ones we love. You will also be with your grandchildren and your children again someday when it is their time to finish their Journey here on Earth and the Lord calls him home. I’ll always remember your smiling face, your quiet way of talking and your wonderful personality. I don’t think I ever heard too many bad words set against you you were always kind, open and thoughtful to all you met. My heart goes out to all your kids and grandkids and other relatives that are left here on Earth. I know and I believe that one day we will all be together again. In one way although it may be hard to lose somebody fast like I did my father it is really a blessing that they didn’t have to linger or suffer. I’ve always said since doing hospice that it’s your mother if she’s in heaven who brings you into the world and it’s her and the Lord will help take you out of the world so I know you were in good hands. My condolences to all your children and to your grandchild and all your family and friends. May you rest in peace knowing that Pearl will be well taken care of until she’s back home with you. God bless them and bless those your family too. You were a very dedicated and loved individual who taught people that life wasn’t all bad it’s just how you looked at it.
-Marlene Helen Bissonette
I was so very sorry to learn of Len’s passing. I saw him regularly at Lakeland, and when he visited former WPS employees at the WPSHC. Len is the reason I became a principal, the start of an almost 40 year career in Leadership. I was the first female in leadership in WPS, he was truly a visionary. Rest in peace Len, and my sincerest sympathies to Pearl and the family.
-Susan Adamson
I am so sorry to hear of my teacher, colleague and friend’s recent passing and wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to dear Pearl and the entire family. I’ve known Len for 65 years, first as “Mr Yauk” my Phys-Ed teacher for 5 years at Nickel District Collegiate in Sudbury. I became reacquainted with him in the early 1980’s in my roles as teacher, French Consultant and Head of the French Immersion program with the West Parry Sound Board of Education, where he was Superintendent and Director of Education. It was during his time as Director of Education that he and I established the highly successful French Immersion program. Our intersection continued when I was elected Reeve of McDougall and he was the Chair of the Hospital Board and we collaborated, along with other members of local councils to see the construction of the new Parry Sound Health Centre facility, opened in 2005. Since both of our retirement in the 1990’ we’ve maintained contact through the “Fogies” group of retired Educators. We had our last time together this past June at our year-end bbq. He and I reminisced about our long-time relationship and reminded each other of several incidents that happened back at Nickel Districts Colkegiate. Len was such a compelling, energetic man, who thrived on challenges and action. I can understand why you, his family, summed up his life with his words “let’s go”. I shall miss him, because he was the only person who linked me to my “ancient past” in Sudbury, to my educational past in Parry Sound and to my current status as a retired educator and public servant in politics in the Parry Sound area. You, his remaining family, have every reason to celebrate his storied life. May his memory and his love for you, his family, bring you comfort and solace as you face the future. Your husband and father was a fine, fine man and an outstanding professional.
-Peter Spadzinski
Sincerest Condolences to the Yauk Family at this most difficult time. May you Cherish All of Your Loving Memories of Mr Yauk for ever. Rest in Peace Mr Yauk. Former Student of Mr. Yauk’s at N.D.C.V.I. in Sudbury, Ontario. Clayton Stevenson
-Clayton Stevenson
I had the privilege of knowing Len as a visionary, mentor, friend, & neighbour. He possessed the remarkable ability to relate to everyone as he listened carefully then clearly articulated his perspective on an endless array of matters of interest and import. Len was a community builder. Along with his beloved Pearl, they were an impactful and inseparable team. As a sign of respect, the West Parry Sound Health Centre & Lakeland Long Term Care flags will be lowered to half-mast on September 15th to commemorate his life and significant contributions to health care in our community and beyond. With sincere sympathy, respect & all good thoughts from your friends & colleagues at WPSHC & Lakeland Long Term Care
-Donald Sanderson
It was with the utmost sadness that we heard of Len’s passing. We send our very deepest condolences to Pearl, Lori, Carol, Alex, and their families. I have never come across such a visionary leader as Len was during his career in education, as well as his volunteer leadership on so many boards and committees. It was such an immense pleasure to work with him. He brought out the best in all of us. There will never be another like him and he will be sorely missed. RIP Len. You have left a great legacy.
-Richard and Sue Woodhouse
I well remember Len’s arrival in Parry Sound as I was relocating to Muskoka from Kapuskasing that year. His presence at regional superintendents meetings was a welcome addition to congenial, professional and collegial gatherings. Since I last saw him in the ‘90’s when he asked if I could offer a little help in initiating the reorganization of local health services, I have thought of him and Pearl often. I now mourn his passing with the knowledge that he is gone. Sincere condolences to Pearl and the Yauk family.
Respectfully,
Wayne Weaver
Markham
-Wayne Weaver
I am so sorry to hear of Len’s death. He was such a strong yet caring leader, and he treated me with concern and respect, although we sometimes had quite heated discussions in our roles in the Hospital Board/District Health Council. He and Pearl were especially thoughtful when my mother died, even taking time to stop at the funeral home before leaving on an out of town trip. My best wishes to the family.
-Catherine Virgo
To the caring family of Len Yauk, I would like to send my condolences to you in the passing of an amazing person. Len will be missed with our Family council of Lakeland that he helped to build. He was always known as ‘Mr. Adjective’; he always knew what to say and how to word documents etc., if we needed to express our interests as a group. I will miss seeing him on Monday nights at the Weekly Knights of Columbus bingo games, selling his lucky 50/50 draw tickets. When Len receives his wings, he will be your guardian angel soaring above you, and protecting everyone he loves. I know there will be a lot of friends and family waiting for his arrival at the pearly gates. I sure hope that someday I will be honoured to be able to meet up with him again at the end of the rainbow of life and sit and chat. This is not goodbye Len, but until we meet again, RIP and you will certainly be missed Len. :(
-Sharon Nissen
My deepest condolences to the Yauk family.
As a West Parry Sound School Board Trustee when Len and Pearl moved to Parry Sound I soon realized how fortunate our community was.
Len was so respected in his leading roles over the years.
A year ago when my Lynn was seriously ill Len reached out numerous times with love and compassion for which I am grateful.
RIP my friend.
-Joe McEwen
I am so sorry to hear of Lens passing. He was an incredible person, kind and thoughtful and I know he will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to his family..
-Debbie Hutton
Deepest condolence to the entire Yauk family. I will remember him always being busy and involved in some community project. I had the pleasure of being apart of the Board of Directors with Len that helped bring the Shamrocks franchise to Parry Sound. He loved the town and community and was never a person to sit on the sidelines – he always put his heart and soul into whatever project he worked on. RIP old friend – your life touched many.
-Geoff Osborn
Len (and Pearl) have been good friends ever since we moved north 25 years ago. So many wonderful memories travelling together, golfing, bbq’s and games. Most of all we will remember the kindness we were shown and the spirited discussions. Our hearts are with Pearl and the family at this difficult time in their lives. RIP friend. May the many memories and love you have given your family provide some comfort.
-Joyce and Peter Hopkins
Some others have said that Len was a visionary. I would like to second that. He was the driving force for the Science in the Biosphere project at PSHS in the early 90’s. Although we were sometimes on the opposite side of the bargaining table, I never doubted for a moment that Len had the best interests of the students in mind. I have always treasured our friendship. RIP Len.
-Jim Mintz
In loving memory of Len. A wonderful gentleman and fabulous conversationalist. Len loved his family, friends and community. An avid golf player and my wife and I enjoyed a superb golf day and dinner in Florida with Pearl and him, along with some other ‘traveling Parry Sounders’. A Mentor to many and a caring individual. RIP Sir.
-Butch and Paula Nicholls
To Alec, Gina, Sean, Troy and your extended family,
On behalf of Giulia and myself, please accept our most deepest condolences.
Sincerely,
John Preiner
-John Preiner
With sincere condolences to Pearl and the Yauk family. I knew Len in his later years and enjoyed a couple of games of golf with him. He was a bright, thoughtful and sharp man who made a difference in his community.
-Dr. Scott Moore
My heartfelt Condolences. We have been wonderful friends for over 25 years. The amazing success and incredible Fun Fundraising also with incredible Community support, for our fantastic new WPSHC. In which you Len were an outstanding Supporter to everyone! And the came the fantastic opening Silent auction and Gala Dinner.2005. Supporting each other through all this was an honour for me to volunteer with you and all our Community And Our Hospital Staff. Those were FUN Days. I seen Len in town often at Sobeys and at our ice cream shops. Were we both loved having an ice cream and laughing a lot had Fun! I will miss you Len and your sense of humour And the ice cream of course. I will visit Pearl! I will also donate and plant a small Tulip Bed in your memory at the main entrance of our WPSHC. Rest Peacefully Len! Erik.
-Erik Deiters
With deepest sympathy we extend our condolences to Len’s family. We had the joy of working with Len in Education, chatting over the years on neighbourhood walks, working on community projects together and seeing Len at The Parry Sound Golf and Country Cub. Len will be missed. Sincerely, Elizabeth & Tim West
-Elizabeth & Tim West
I was born and raised in Sudbury. When I started high school, I was registered at Sudbury High School / SHS, The principal was Mr. Costigan. My memories of the amalgamation of SHS with Sheridan Technical School are very vivid. My mom, the late Mae Fairhall was a kindergarten teacher with the same board. Both mom and I did not want the merger to happen. My mom felt that she could not speak out against her employer. She was horrified to learn that I had skipped school in order to join a protest parade to the board offices complete with a coffin that had been built by the shop class and Jim Sparks playing Taps on the trumpet. The merged school was quite a building to navigate. Some stairs could only be used in the upwards direction while others could only be used in the downwards direction. The 3rd floor in the SHS building did not directly link with the 3rd floor in the STS building. One semester I had a class on the 3rd floor of SHS followed by Mrs. Pearl Yauk’s English Communication Class on the 2nd floor of STS. Despite almost running between those two classes, I was always late for Mrs. Yauk’s class as they would not let you go across the field. I could never figure out that rule. I also wondered if she was wanting to send her husband, Mr. Len Yauk, enough late students to fill his office. Both Mr. and Mrs. Yauk were a credit to their teaching profession and society as a whole. Love and Prayers Susan Fuller
-Susan Fairhall Fuller
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