Joel Yanofsky
September 26, 1955 – December 23, 2020
On Wednesday, December 23, 2020. Beloved husband of Cynthia Davis. Devoted father of Jonah Davis Yanofsky. Loving son of the late Bernard and the late Jean Yanofsky; and son-in-law of Carole and the late Alex Davis. Cherished brother of the late Renee Yanofsky, and the late Marilyn Yanofsky; and brother-in-law of Sym Davis and Tareneh Assil, Genie Davis and Gary Groszman. Joel was a dear nephew, uncle, friend, writer, and teacher.
Joel was born in Montreal and grew up in the Laval suburb of Chomedey, was educated at McGill University, and for many years taught at Concordia University and the Quebec Writers’ Federation. Joel made his way in the world as a writer of fiction, non-fiction, memoir, musical theatre and literary criticism. His principal works include Homo Erectus, Jacob’s Ladder, Mordecai & Me which won the 2003 Mavis Gallant QWF Non-fiction Prize and the Canadian Jewish Book Award, Bad Animals: A Father’s Accidental Education in Autism, which won the 2011 Mavis Gallant QWF non-fiction prize and gained international acclaim, and he was the co-writer Love U: The Grad School Musical. Joel moved through his life with extraordinary wit, kindness, generosity and grace. He leaves behind heartbroken family, friends, colleagues, students, and poker buddies, who will very much miss Joel calling their bluff.
A private graveside service will take place. Shiva strictly private. Contributions in his memory may be made to “The Joel Yanofsky Library and Resource Center” c/o the Friendship Circle of Montreal, (514) 735-2255.
He loved well and was well loved. As a close friend said, ‘he made all of us who knew him better.’
2020
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Joel Yanofsky 2020..
Décès pour la Ville: Montreal, Province: Quebec