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WALTER YARISH
Born: Jun 26, 1942
Date of Passing: Aug 28, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryWALTER YARISH
With deep love and sadness, we announce the passing of Walter Yarish, who passed away suddenly in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 83. 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.
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 Master 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, Diane, of 57 wonderful years, his children Leanne, Krista (Scott), grandchildren Hunter, Hayden, and Seaver — who he credited with keeping him young - and his 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, and his nephew Ron.
In keeping with Walter's wishes and nature, a Celebration of Life will be held to honour his life and legacy in September 8, 2:00 pm at Hainstock's Funeral Home, 9810 34th Ave, Edmonton, AB T6E6L1.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or the Ukrainian Canadian Congress.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 02, 2025
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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So sorry to hear of my childhood friend Walter’s passing. He was a third brother to me. He used to take delight in telling people that we’ve been friends for more than 80 years. When they looked shocked, he explained that we were friends before we could talk! He will be missed. Condolences to Dianne and his family. Goodbye my friend. May we meet again. - Posted by: Jerry Stebeleski (Friend) on: Aug 09, 2025
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Very sorry to hear of Walter's passing. We had an excellent visit at our class reunion last summer. I was a privilege to know him as classmate in the 60's and later as a fellow employee with Alberta Agriculture in the 80's. His ready smile and positive attitude will be missed. - Posted by: Ron Pettitt (Former classmate) on: Aug 04, 2025
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Dianne and family, so sorry to see that Walter passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I have great memories of our times that we got to visit. Our last meeting was in Mexico and I will hold that great afternoon in my heart. - Posted by: Wilma Ratkowski (Friend) on: Aug 02, 2025
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I was sorry to see Wally passed away. Ernie and I considered him a lifelong friend. You have my sincere sympathy at this time. - Posted by: Helen Kuch (friend) on: Aug 02, 2025
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So sorry to hear of Walter’s passing. We had a wonderful visit at last year’s 60th Aggie reunion. - Posted by: Wayne motheral (College friend) on: Aug 02, 2025