Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation has received its largest single legacy gift to date. Long- time Okanagan resident Frank Yanavicius left his full estate, a gift in excess of $1 million, to the Foundation in recognition of exceptional care he received at VJH in his later years.
“This generous gift from Mr. Yanavicius will ensure improved health care for North Okanagan generations to come,” said Sue Beaudry, Director of Development for VJH Foundation.
The Foundation is grateful for such legacy gifts, and working with Interior Health in the North Okanagan, determines how the bequest will be used honouring the wishes of the individual.
Frank Yanavicius, an only child, was born in Lithuania in 1927. At the age of six, he immigrated to Canada with his father and mother, settling in the Lumby area, where Frank grew up.
A lifelong bachelor, Frank retired in 1984, after a 33-year career as a metal sheet fabricator in Vancouver and Calgary. He returned to Vernon to pursue the activities that he loved. Frank was a well-recognized and avid fly fisherman. His passion for the sport led him to become a founding member of the Kalamalka Flyfishers Club.
Instrumental in teaching newcomers, “Uncle Frank” as he was often called, taught fly fishing and fly tying courses. When teaching fly casting he would often remark to those trying to outcast each other, “I don’t know what it is with you guys, just get the boat closer.”
The annual Fishing Day for Kids at Polson Park was another project that Frank loved to be involved in. He participated in the many projects that the Club spearheaded, most notably the annual Coldstream Creek enhancement, which upgrades the weirs for the fish to climb during the spawning season.
In recognition of his many contributions to the Club, Frank was made a lifetime honorary member.
Always careful with his money, a friend remembers asking Frank when he was going to buy a new truck, the response was, “No need, the bucket of bolts is still running.” Thanks to this thriftiness, Frank Yanavicius has left a generous legacy for patients at Vernon Jubilee Hospital. Funds from his bequest will be directed to support expanded surgical services for Vernon Jubilee Hospital.
