Anna YANOVSKY

YANOVSKY, Anna (nee ATANAS) On Wednesday, February 16, 2022, Anna Yanovsky finally relinquished her task to work for a better world and take a well-deserved rest. In 1933, Anna was born into a world in crisis – the Great Depression and the looming shadow of a fascist war. The child of Macedonian immigrants, Anna grew up in the hard times neighbourhood of Toronto's Cabbagetown. Her passion for justice began through her family's strong trade union roots and Anna's own childhood experiences with WASP immigrant prejudices. As a teenage activist, Anna joined the National Federation of Labour Youth. Here, she sang in various groups, sharing her beautiful soprano voice in folk and progressive songs of the people. In her twenties, Anna lived abroad in Bulgaria, studying music and enjoying a rich cultural life. Returning to Canada, Anna continued her fight for equality and justice by joining the Communist Party, a membership she proudly maintained for the rest of her life. She also met the love of her life, celebrated progressive artist Avrom Yanovsky. They married in 1961. Family responsibilities became part of her life with the addition of her stepson Zalman and two daughters, Dvoira and Kaethe. In the years that followed, Anna lived a life full of friendship, art, work, and class struggle. There was tragedy too, losing Avrom in 1979 and Zalman in 2002. Anna was also an active member of the United Jewish People's Order, a constant camper at Camp Naivelt, and a staunch supporter of the Canadian-Cuban Friendship Association. Anna leaves behind many friends and comrades, and most especially her family: daughters Dvoira (Terry) and Kaethe; grandchildren Zoe (Greg), Joshua, and Zachary; great-grandchildren Max and Henry; and sister Polly. Anna was a confirmed atheist – there was no "pie in the sky." A woman of principle, Anna believed life was lived here and now, and indeed, that's exactly how she lived it.