George "Flash" Yoshiaki Yamada

George Yoshiaki Yamada passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at Kelowna General Hospital, surrounded by his family, at the age of 85. George was born on December 23, 1940, at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia, the eldest son of Chikayoshi “Charlie” and Chizue “Rose” Yamada. From an early age, George carried with him a strong sense of family, loyalty, and kindness—traits that defined him throughout his life. The love of George’s life was his wife, Margaret, with whom he shared 45 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life full of laughter, friendship, and tradition. One of their most cherished adventures was participating in the Vernon Christmas Lights Tour, where George and Margaret delighted everyone by dressing up as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, greeting visitors with warm smiles, hot chocolate, and homemade cookies. It was a perfect reflection of their generous spirits and love of community. George was deeply involved in volunteering and was known for always lending a hand. He loved fishing, camping, gardening, golf, and hockey—both watching and playing. Hockey remained close to his heart right to the end, and his hockey buddies were an important part of his life. George might have been small but he was fast and mighty, he earned the nickname of Flash. His Friday afternoon gatherings with friends at the Army and Navy Club, where laughter, stories, and a cold drink were always shared. These friendships meant the world to him. Above all else, George’s greatest joy and proudest treasure were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than time spent with them—cheering them on, sharing stories, and simply being “Grandpa.” Family was everything to George, and his legacy lives on through the many generations who adored him. George is lovingly remembered by his wife Margaret; his daughters Dawn (Todd), Michele (Ed), Debbie (Bob), Yvette (Blair); stepdaughter Anne (Bob); his grandchildren Rachelle (Shon), Breanne, Cole (Silken), Derek and Blair (Shaun), Cody (Amy), Garrett, Nikita (Sam), Ryan, Kyle, Kylie, Tessa and Caitlyn; and his great-grandchildren Halle, Emery, Zayd, Zeo, Mackenzie, Wells, Tristan, Jayden, Logan, Kayson, Kezley, Hana, Daniel, Shiloh and Andrew. He is also survived by his great-great-granddaughter Ivy; his brother Ed (Wanda); and many nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.

George will be remembered for his warm heart, infectious smile, sense of humor, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. He lived a full life, rich in love, friendship, and community—and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in George’s memory to the Hospice Society or a charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, located at 4303 Pleasant Valley Road, Vernon, BC, V1T4M4, Canada. The service is scheduled for February 13, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. A Interment Service will follow at Pleasant Valley Cemetery and a Reception to follow in the Tea Room .