Shizuko (Shiz) Yano

Yano, Shizuko (Shiz) (Nee: Arai)

November 25, 1928 – July 14, 2026

Surrounded by her family, Shiz Yano passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, at the age of 97.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her children, Sherry (Erik) and Doug (Teena); her cherished grandchildren, Cole, Olivia, and Nathan; her sister, Yuki Aoyama; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Shiz was predeceased by her beloved husband of 38 years, George; her brothers, Yoshio and Kazuo Arai; her sisters, Fumiko Nakade and Misao Yano; and her parents, Kozo and Tome Arai.

Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Shiz often spoke fondly of her childhood, growing up in a lively family home filled with weekend outings, family picnics, piano lessons, Japanese language classes, sports, and the shared responsibilities of a busy household. During the Second World War, her family was among the Japanese Canadians who were forcibly interned, living in Grand Forks, British Columbia, from 1942 to 1948. After returning to the coast, Shiz earned a scholarship to attend the University of British Columbia, where she completed her Bachelor of Education.

Teaching was more than a career—it was a lifelong passion. Shiz found great joy in the classroom and was grateful for the opportunity to meet so many wonderful students while forming lasting friendships with colleagues throughout her many years as an educator.

In keeping with Shiz's wishes, no service will be held.

The family extends its heartfelt thanks to Robyn Jenkins and the compassionate staff at Amica Little Lake in Barrie, Ontario, for their exceptional care, kindness, and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be deeply grateful for donations in Shiz's name to PALS Autism Society.