Tribute

Thomas “Tom” Yacishyn

It is with great love and sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas “Tom” Yacishyn on July 22^nd, 2025.

He is lovingly survived by his wife of 53 years, Marilyn, and their sons Thomas (Catherine), Jason (Kate) and David (Tawny); his grandchildren Wake, Trinity, Madison, Gage and Lucy: his sisters Paulette Nickarz and Bonnie (Dave) Roseborough: sisters-in-law Leslie Yacyshyn, Alice (Brion) Upton and Rita (Rick); brother-in-law Tony Roth, their families and extended family and friends whose lives he touched.

Tom is predeceased by his parents Ann and Nickolas Yacishyn, his parents-in-law Mary and Jacob Roth; his brothers Bob, John and Philip: his sisters-in-law Loretta Roth and Sophie Roth; and his niece Kara Nickarz.

Tom was born in Preeceville, Saskatchewan on March 21, 1944 to his parents Ann and Nickolas Yacishyn.  Tom’s first years were in a two room log home built by his parents on the land they cleared, broke by horses and farmed.  The homestead grew to 640 acres and a modern four bedroom home where he grew up with his two sisters and three late brothers, Bob, John and Philip.

Tom spent 40 years of his career in excavation work, mainly in underground water and sewer installation. Known for his strong work ethic, skill, and generosity in sharing his knowledge, he earned deep respect in his field.  His work took him to Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia in such  places like Radium Hot Springs, Canmore, Jasper, Fort McMurray and around Edmonton.  He also worked for a short time in a gold mine in Bissett Manitoba.

A true adventurer at heart, Tom and Marilyn traveled together to 43 countries, including Uganda, Ukraine, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, China, Turkey, Iceland, multiple trips to Hawaii and Mexico and numerous locations in Europe and South America creating a lifetime of memories.

After moving to Osoyoos, Tom devoted two years as a volunteer with the Okanagan Gleaners, processing vegetables into dried soup mix to help feed the world’s hungry. He took great pride in this work, knowing the food would be sent to countries across the globe.

Tom was also a talented carpenter with a passion for woodworking.  Over the years, he built captain’s beds, wagons, bookcases, desks and sleighs for his young sons, and later helped them renovate their homes.  He also enjoyed crafting birdhouses,pet dishes, walking sticks, and whimsical wooden pieces like butterflies, dragonflies, mushrooms and golf ball caterpillars which are treasured by those who received them.

Never to sit still, Tom and Marilyn participated in farmers markets as Tom’s Creations and The Perogy Lady in Rock Creek, Beaverdell, Okanagan Falls, Oliver, Keremeos, Sicamous, and  Princeton. Many neighbors will remember his open garage door, always ready to lend a tool, share a story, or offer a helping hand.   Tom’s kindness, generosity , and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

His greatest pride was in raising his three boys, watching them grow into kind, capable, and hardworking men who carry his values forward.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support received during this difficult time. In Tom’s memory, donations may be made to Okanagan Gleaners @ 507 No 3 Road, Oliver, BC, V0H1T1

CELEBRATION OF LIFE to be held at The Phantom Creek Winery -4315 Black Sage Road, Oliver

DATE:  September 6, 2025

Time: 1:00 pm