Walter Yarish

Walter was truly the salt of the earth - honest, hardworking, and reliable, and his life reflected integrity, resilience, curiosity, and kindness values he carried from his childhood on a Manitoba prairie farm to his later years.

Born on the family farm near Oakburn, Manitoba, in 1942—the youngest of nine children— Walter was raised in a household shaped by the strength of immigrant roots. His parents, Ukrainian Catholic settlers, instilled in him the virtues of hard work, respect, and practicality.

Walter's curiosity and intellect led him far beyond the boundaries of the family farm. He valued education, science, history, and was a lifelong reader. He studied at the University of Manitoba, obtaining his Bachelor and Masters of Science.

Walter met his wife Diane in 1966 and moved to Edmonton, Alberta in 1970, where they created a life rooted in love, family, and meaningful friendships. Here, he began his long, rewarding career as an agrologist with the Alberta government. Walter was passionate about nature, gardening and curling as well as a dedicated community volunteer, contributing to various committees and boards.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 wonderful years, Diane, his children Leanne, Krista (Scott, grandchildren Hunter, Hayden, and Seaver-who he credited with keeping him young -s and sisters, Elise, Roxy — and many extended family members and friends across Canada. He was predeceased by his siblings Mary, Bill, Rose, Joe, Phyllis, and Nick.