Ed. D. Harold C. Yiannaki

Boardman - Harold Yiannaki, age 79, passed away peacefully at home on October 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Cyprus and immigrating to the United States at the age of three, Harold remained deeply proud of his heritage throughout his life. He was the son of Costas and Maria Yiannaki and one of five siblings. Harold pursued a lifelong commitment to education, earning his Bachelor's Degree from Youngstown State University, Master of Arts in Education in 1972 and his Doctor of Education in 1984, both from the University of Akron. He dedicated over three decades of service to Youngstown State University, where he held numerous leadership roles from 1969 until his retirement in 2002. His positions included Registrar, Director of Enrollment Services, Executive Director of Campus 2000, and Executive Director of External Relations. Following his retirement in 2010, the Youngstown State University Board of Trustees presented him with the prestigious Heritage Award. He continued to serve the academic community as a liaison to the Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Harold's professional legacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to students, colleagues, and the mission of higher education. He was known for his integrity, vision, and the countless lives he touched through his work. Above all, Harold cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Efi (Kaniclides) Yiannaki; his daughter, Dr. Maria Varveris (Atty. Nick), and their daughters, Efi and Anna; his son, Nicolas Yiannaki and granddaughter, Maeve; siblings Loretta Tipton, Andy Yiannaki, Georgia (Michael) Tilford; sister-in-law Deborah Yiannaki; and loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Sam and nephew Paul Yiannaki; and in-laws, Tom Tipton, Alice Yiannaki, and Drew Wiltsie. Family and friends may pay their respects from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at St. John the Forerunner Greek Orthodox Church, 4955 Glenwood Avenue, Boardman 44512, followed by a 12 p.m. funeral service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home 4442 South Avenue, Boardman. Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family by visiting the Book of Memories at ww.rossifunerals.com.