Norman "Dempsey" Yost, of Hanover, passed away after a brief illness at Chapman House Residential Hospice in Owen Sound on Wednesday, January 29, 2020. He was 91.
Born in Hamilton, Ontario on October 8, 1928 to the late Earl and Meta (nee Adler) Yost. Known as Dempsey for most of his life, he worked for Hanover Hydro as a Lineman and Foreman. Many would be surprised that he only had a grade 10 education but that still didn't stop him from reaching his goals and making something for himself. He set his eyes upon Gwendolyn Rose Lahn and were wed on March 31, 1951.
He worked for Hanover Hydro for over 31 years with 15 of those promoted to being a Foreman. Dempsey had values and a hard work ethic that he passed down to his children. He worked for the Town of Hanover as a Volunteer Fire Fighter at first, then Captain and Deputy Chief for 32 years of Service. Nothing made him more proud than his family. He was proud of all the accomplishments of his children and both he and Gwen were ecstatic when their new title of "Grandparents" were bestowed upon them. He would recall some of his fondest memories was the days of hunting and fishing with friends for hours, sometimes not catching anything, but the time with them made it all worthwhile. Surely there are a few stories surrounding some of their greatest "catches". Of all the greatest catches, he would admit that being married to Gwen was truly the best. They exuded every bit of true love and between them both, embodied happiness.
Dempsey liked a challenge and could definitely keep up with the "young- ins" as he was active in playing Hockey, Baseball, Lacrosse, Lawn and Alley Bowling. His "Strike" was definitely his family. He was a loyal member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Hanover. He was able to make lasting impressions wherever he went and he certainly will be remembered as a soft spoken, kind hearted man.
Survived by children Gary (Aline) Yost of Hanover, Heather (Ray) Thomas of Ajax, Ken (Sue) Yost of Chatsworth and Bob (Diane) Yost of Hanover. Reeling in the fishing stories and legacies are grandchildren Natalie (Ryan), Christopher (Rachel), Cody (Klaudia), Kaitlyn (Chris), Ryley, Kelsey, McKenna (Adam), Callan, Carson, and great grandchildren Kingston, Camden, Hannah and Piper. Remembered by his niece Debby (Paul) Shields of Fort Erie. Predeceased by his beloved wife Gwen (nee Lahn) in 2016, daughter Brenda Fookes (2002), 2 infant sons at birth and his sister Marie Pook.
Visitation will be held at Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover, on Saturday, February 8, 2020 from 11am until time of a Funeral Service at 1:00 pm. Rev. John Polacok officiating. Interment in Hanover Cemetery.
Memorial donations to the Chapman House or to Jumpstart would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.