Longtime Oak Harbor resident, Fermin Leo Yadon, 94, formerly of Wasilla, Alaska, passed away peacefully on Dec. 7, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Leo was born in Okemah, Okla. on Sept. 17, 1923, to John and Elpha Leona (Clinkingbeard) Yadon. Leo served in the Navy from 1942 to 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.
Leo married Lillian Marie Foret on Feb. 6, 1946, in Lockport, La. The couple lived in California, Oregon and Alaska for many years before moving to Oak Harbor. 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; Dennis Reed Yadon (Gail) of Mount Vernon; Evelyn Marie Hill (Larry) of Joyce, Wash.; Robert Leo Yadon (Janet) of Wasilla, Alaska, Mary Ellen Newcomb (Randy) of Wasilla, Alaska; Bonnie Jo Linn (Claud) of Oak Harbor, and Samuel Lee Yadon (Wendy) of Port Angeles, Wash.; 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 whirlygigs 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 was held at 1 p.m. on Dec. 15 at Family Bible Church, 2760 N. Heller Rd, Oak Harbor, 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.sup portpcc4life.org
Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at whidbeymemorial.com
