Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
Longtime Oak Harbor, Washington, resident, Fermin Leo Yadon, 94, formerly of Wasilla, passed away peacefully on Dec. 7, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Leo was born in Okemah, Oklahoma, on Sept. 17, 1923, to John and Elpha Leona (Clinkingbeard) Yadon. Leo served in the US Navy from 1942 – 1945 and then went on to farming in California, Oregon and Alaska where he was a dairy farmer. In 1973 he founded Leo Yadon and Sons Construction and continued to work as a carpenter until he retired in Oak Harbor, Washington.
Leo married Lillian Marie Foret on Feb. 6, 1946, in Lockport, Louisiana. The couple lived in California, Oregon and Alaska for many years before moving to Oak Harbor, Washington in 1991. Preceding him in death were his son, Joe Yadon, his wife Lillian and his great-grandson Jordan Holm. He is survived by his children, Fermin John “Skip” Yadon (Shirley) of Oak Harbor, Washington; Dennis Reed Yadon (Gail) of Mount Vernon, Washington; Evelyn Marie Hill (Larry) of Joyce, Washington; Robert Leo Yadon (Janet) of Wasilla, Mary Ellen Newcomb (Randy) of Wasilla; Bonnie Jo Linn (Claud) of Oak Harbor, Washington and Samuel Lee Yadon (Wendy) of Port Angeles, Washington; 22 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren.
Leo was affectionately known as, “Papa” to his family. He loved his family, especially his wife and children, to whom his commitment was never faltering. Leo had a deep love for his Saviour and taught his children through his example of steadfast faithfulness to the Lord. He loved music, playing his guitar, singing and traveling with the Old Time Fiddlers Association. He also created absolute magic in his woodshop, producing everything from birdhouses to whirly gigs to animal piggy banks. Leo “Papa” was the delight of his family, who count each moment with him a treasured blessing. “Then the Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21 KJV)
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Dec. 15, 2017 at Family Bible Church, 2760 N Heller Rd, Oak Harbor, Washington, with Pastor Ron Lawler officiating. Private interment will take place in Wasilla Borealis Cemetery at a later date. The family has requested in lieu of flowers, memorials be sent to the Pregnancy Care Clinic, 670 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, WA 98277. www.supportpcc4life.org
Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at whidbeymemorial.com.