Shizuko Yano (Shiz)

Shizuko Yano, affectionately known as Shiz, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, at the age of 97, surrounded by her family in Barrie, Ontario. She is deeply missed by her children, Sherry and Doug, and their spouses, Erik and Teena, as well as her grandchildren, Cole, Olivia, and Nathan. Shiz is also remembered by her sister, Yuki Aoyama, and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, George, after 38 years of marriage, as well as her brothers, Yoshio and Kazuo Arai, sisters, Fumiko Nakade and Misao Yano, and parents, Kozo and Tome Arai. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Shiz grew up in a lively family home and went on to earn a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia. She dedicated her life to teaching, a profession that brought her immense joy and allowed her to form lasting connections with students and colleagues. As per her wishes, no service will be held. The family expresses gratitude to the staff at Amica Little Lake in Barrie for their exceptional care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations in Shiz's name to the PALS Autism Society would be appreciated.