With heavy hearts, the Yanko family announces the passing of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Dr. Paul Edward Yanko, who was 70 years old. Surrounded by love, he peacefully passed away at home in Kamloops on November 15, 2024. After a courageous 10-year battle with a brain tumour, he made the brave decision to end his life with MAiD, choosing a peaceful and dignified exit as he 'made the great escape.' It was a beautiful moment just as he had wished, with family and friends by his side. We shared a farewell tequila shot, listened to his favourite music, and watched him strum his guitar in his final moments with us.

Paul, born on April 17, 1954, at Burnaby General Hospital, was raised by his parents, June and Peter Yanko (predeceased). He grew up in Burnaby alongside his older brother David, his younger brother Michael (predeceased), and his sister Deborah. In his youth, along with childhood best friends Dave Mackay and Mike Elder, Paul never shied away from mischief.

Paul met his soulmate, Cindy Yanko (née Collier), at Shuswap Lake. They were wed on July 3, 1976, in the Chandelier Ballroom at the Sheraton Villa Inn in Burnaby.

After graduating from Burnaby Central Secondary School in 1972, he attended UBC, completing his BSc in Biochemistry in 1976 and his Doctor of Medicine in 1980, followed by his family medicine residency. He was actively involved with the BC College of Family Physicians (BCMA, now Doctors of BC). Dr. Yanko went on to practice medicine for 37 years (nine years in Logan Lake and 28 years in Kamloops). Though he enjoyed all areas of his practice, he had a strong aptitude for obstetrics. He always welcomed students into his office, cherishing the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of medical professionals. His sudden retirement in March 2015 was a significant loss to the community.

Though his medical career gave Paul purpose, his family was his pride and joy. Paul and Cindy had four children: Daniel (Shannon) Yanko, Alexis (Noah) Feist, Jonathan (Brittany) Yanko, and Jessica (Jonny) Varga. Paul was 'Papa' to seven grandchildren, the apples of his eye. His youthful and silly spirit will forever reside within them.

Outside of medicine, Paul was an avid guitar player. He enjoyed playing with his band The Phoenix and was known as 'the Doc of Rock.' He also loved travelling the world with Cindy. After all of his adventures, he always said his favourite corner of the world was 'the Ponderosa,' his family cabin at Shuswap Lake.

Paul was known for his larger-than-life personality. He was a devoted family man and a true loyal friend. His memory will endure in the hearts he touched, especially his wife Cindy.

In his last weeks, Paul said that life is all about making connections and relationships with others. That, he believed, is what truly matters. And that is exactly what he did.

Cindy and the family thank everyone for their love and support, showing how much Paul impacted others and how far his reach went.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Paul’s memory to the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation. Messages to the family can be sent through Paul Edward Yanko’s Obituary on the Schoenings Funeral Service’s website.

A private celebration of life will be held for close family and friends.

Never forgotten, forever loved.