We Remember

YAMAOKA, Gerry

March 12, 1948 — July 18, 2022

Gerry Yamaoka, much-beloved husband, father, and grandfather, slipped away peacefully on July 18, 2022, at the age of 74 after a valiant battle with lung cancer.

Predeceased by his parents, Toshio and Mitsuko (Shirley), Gerry is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Vicky; his children Shaun (Keri) and Kristy; his grandchildren Jayden, Kyleigh, and Alexis; and his many family members and friends.

Gerry was born on March 12, 1948, in Kelowna, B.C., into an orchardist family where he planted strong roots working alongside his father.  He eventually took over the family business and proudly managed it for twenty successful years, retiring in 2007.  A lover of the great outdoors, Gerry’s passions included Matsutake mushroom hunting, steelhead fishing, and golfing with friends.

Gerry battled many significant health challenges throughout his life and faced them stoically with grace and courage and without complaint.  “Peachy” was the standard word that he used to describe how he was feeling when asked.

Thanks to the care, support, and empathy of the Kelowna General Hospital transplant team, Dr. Graham, and many other doctors, nurses, and staff at the Community Health & Services Centre including Drs. Rao, Rolf, and Shaw, Palliative Care, and Hospice House Kelowna, Gerry was afforded more time with his loved ones, for which we are extremely grateful.

There will be a Memorial Service on Monday, August 8, 2022, at 10:00 AM at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

In lieu of flowers or Koden, donations may be made to the Kelowna Transplant Clinic (Kelowna General Hospital, 2268 Pandosy Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 1T2) or to the Central Okanagan Hospice House.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM:

Service
Monday, August 8, 2022, at 10:00 AM

Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

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Kelowna Transplant Clinic (Kelowna General Hospital, 2268 Pandosy Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 1T2) or to the Central Okanagan Hospice House Association Link: www.hospicehousekelowna.com, www.kghfoundation.com

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for YAMAOKA, Gerry is scheduled for Monday, August 8, 2022, at 10:00 AM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

2020 Springfield Road Kelowna, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

Funeral Pointers:

 


Condolences

  • Bob Mettleesky says:
    July 25, 2022 at 7:02 pm

    Gerald was simply a great friend in school. He enjoyed weekends and the odd beer we used to share at our special secret drinking holes around the area. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My sincere condolences to his wife, family and extended family. PS: just so you know Gerry that is a nice catch. RIP Gerry your suffering is now over and in peace.

    Reply
  • Jean Stewart says:
    July 25, 2022 at 8:37 pm

    Vicky and family. I am sad to hear of Gerry’s passing and wish to extend my condolences to all. I remember him as a vibrant young man with a great personality – and remember your visit to the ranch many years ago. My blessings. Jean Stewart

    Reply
  • John and Susan Nishida says:
    July 27, 2022 at 3:59 am

    Vicky and family,
    We were so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. We remember that summer that we took John’s Mom out for a visit and you all were so kind and welcoming to us. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
    The Nishida Family (John, Susan, Kate and Steve)

    Reply
  • Laurie Williams says:
    August 6, 2022 at 6:53 pm

    Vicky, Shaun, Kristy and family,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Gerry was true friend to everyone and will be missed greatly. Hold on tight to all of your wonderful and cherished memories. RIP my friend.

    Reply
  • Sue FranK says:
    August 8, 2022 at 6:45 am

    Vicky, Judy and I were so sad to hear of Gerry’s passing. I was hoping to make it in today for Gerry’s service but have developed a bad cold and do not want to spread it to anyone. I am sending you lots of Love and hugs . Judy and Gerald as well send their Deepest Sympathy. So sorry for you loss! Love always Sue

    Reply
  • Julie Fiorentino says:
    August 8, 2022 at 2:26 pm

    Dear Jayden and family,
    I was saddened to read the obituary of your Grandfather. He must have been one proud man to be a grandfather to you, Jayden! I remember you as such a smart, talented and kind student. I am certain you were influenced by your Grandpa’s values.
    May his wisdom resonate in your memory and his wit make you laugh on the days you need it most.
    Sincerely,
    Miss Julie Fiorentino
    Your Grade 1 teacher at Watson Road Elementary

    Reply
  • Dale Naka says:
    August 9, 2022 at 8:39 pm

    Vicky and family, Ernest and I are so sorry for your loss, We were unable to attend Gerry’s beautiful memorial but we did watch it at home (screened to our TV). Heartfelt condolences Ernest & Dale Naka,

    Reply
  • AMANDA BAUMANN says:
    August 18, 2022 at 7:09 pm

    I am so incredibly sorry for your loss Kristy and family. I have many fond memories of spending summer weekends and holidays at the Yamaoka house. Gerry was an amazing father to both Shaun and Kristy. And they were blessed to have him in their lives. Sending big hugs and lots of love. If you need anything please let me know Kristy💕

    Reply

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Testimonials

They took care of me like family.

Judith Szabo

Everything was so organized and pertinent to what we needed. Everyone we met was kind, courteous and very helpful during our emotional and challenging time. Thank you so much.

Heather Mayne

They were so prompt on answering any questions and changing things. They were prepared and respected any religious decisions. The process was so seamless and made easy in such a high stress situation.

Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

Everyone was so helpful and kind.  There was no pressure.  They provided exactly what we needed.

Diane Greenwood

From the time I called to the completion of all the services, I received compassionate, attentive and professional care.  There was a sense of caring from each staff member.  I was turning over my Mom to their care and I felt very comfortable with everyone.  I felt heard and never felt pushed into any decision.

Katherine Lewis

I have always found the team at Springfield Funeral Home to be VERY caring, kind, considerate and helpful.  I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who asks which funeral home would I suggest they use.  No other funeral home I have dealt with even comes close to Springfield Funeral Home.

Ethna Tutt

Right at the onset, I was made very comfortable, there was no pressure.  I was made to feel as if I was the only one they had to serve.

Frances Baum

Everything that was arranged for us was perfect.  Our loved one, husband, father, brother was treated with respect.  Thank you for making this difficult time a little more acceptable via your staff’s obvious caring and respect.

Jacquelene Bluschke