Obituary of Thomas YAUK

THOMAS BRUCE YAUK August 12, 1943 - June 19, 2009 It is with great sadness to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Tom, beloved husband, father, and grandfather at the age of 65 years. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Rose Marie as well as his daughters Theresa (Steve) and Evelyn (Dave), son Noah (Janel) and grandchildren Sam and Nora. He is also survived by his brother Leonard (Pearl) in Ontario. In 1973 Tom graduated with his Masters of City Planning from the University of Manitoba, during which time he was a recipient of a Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Fellowship. This was the first of many accolades and awards. Tom had a long and accomplished career with the City of Winnipeg and earned respect for his ideals which were grounded in fairness and social equality. Even when faced with resistance, his principles were never in question. Prior to retirement Tom was the Commissioner of Planning and Community Services at the City of Winnipeg. Tom was involved with many other organizations throughout his long career, including serving as President of the Housing Opportunity Partnership, an adjunct Professor at the Department of City Planning at the University of Manitoba and President of the Canadian Association of Housing and Renewal Officials in Ottawa. The many people who knew Tom appreciated his unique brand of humor, his unwavering commitment to social justice, and the manner in which he put both strangers and friends at ease. Skillful songwriter and wordsmith, Tom would play his guitar for any audience and write a song for any occasion. Tom wrote many songs about his connection to the North End and always took listeners though a well woven story. Tom was very proud of recording his own CD, New Beginnings in 2004. In recent years he was a great "Poppa" and "Bubba" to his grandchildren, with whom he derived great happiness and joy. Prayers will be said on Wednesday, June 24 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 25 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, 250 Burrin Avenue. Interment to follow in Assumption Cemetery. Rest in peace, Tom, you will be greatly missed and will always be close to our hearts. In lieu of flowers people may make donations to the charity of their choice (Tom had a special affinity for those focused on inner city revitalization).