Lynde Yasui, 70, died peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Health Centre in Toronto, from pneumonia, a result of complications from Alzheimer’s.

She is survived by sister, Cathy, and brother, Brian, sister-in-law, Minnie, loving nephew, Spencer and niece, Kendall. She was predeceased by mother, Chizuko, and father, Doc (Yoichi) Yasui, and nephew, Garrett.

Lyn was born and raised in Toronto by loving parents and supported by a wider group of highly caring aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends.

In her twenties, she satiated her thirst for new adventures by travelling across Europe and learned to speak fluent Italian which she utilized throughout her life.

Her quest for knowledge continued at the University of Toronto with a BA in Sociology and Women’s Studies, and a master’s degree in social work. It was her Women’s Studies education that allowed Lynde to solidify her identity, becoming an advocate for women’s issues and rights.

Lyn’s initial foray into her profession was as Program Support Worker at NOAH, the Newcomer Orientation Assistance and Hospitality Reception Centre in Toronto, where she quickly honed skills to help newcomer families connect with opportunities for success through services and support agencies.

Lyn moved forward with those talents to COSTI Immigrant Services in Toronto, the lead umbrella organization for several agencies helping immigrant communities, new Canadians and others requiring assistance. COSTI is a ‘hub’ for connecting people – newcomers and staff – and a place where Lyn’s love of people, cultural diversity, equity and inclusion was enrichened.

Over 25 years at COSTI, she held roles of increasing responsibility, from general counsellor to Program Liaison, Assistant Manager of Operations, to Manager and General Manager. She rose to the challenges brought on by a myriad of responsibilities and yet, never lost sight of the front-line workers. She knew how critical they were in helping newcomers transition to a new life in Toronto. She helped fortify their efforts with her upbeat nature and daily smiles. They returned the affection. For Lyn, COSTI was family, and an indelible force in both her professional endeavours and personal growth.

Along the way, her ebullient personality and wide range of interests, from biking and hiking to running in the Boston Marathon, added layers to a winning disposition that helped make her an indomitable friendly force to so many people.

To Lynde – everyone’s sister and friend – thank you for spreading a lifetime of joy!

Well done, Lyn! We’ll love you forever!

We kindly request that donations in honour of Lynde Yasui be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Toronto (https://alz.to/support-the-society/?form=tribute&recurring=once) or COSTI Immigrant Services (https://www.costi.org/supportingcommunity/gifts.php)