Harold Yiannaki 1946-2025
BOARDMAN — Harold Yiannaki, 79, passed away peacefully at home, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Cyprus and emigrating to the United States at the age of 3, 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 degree 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 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 (Attorney Nick), and their daughters, Efi and Anna; his son, Nicolas Yiannaki, and granddaughter, Maeve; siblings, Loretta Tipton, Andy Yiannaki and Georgia (Michael) Tilford; sister-in-law, Deborah Yiannaki; and loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Sam; nephew, Paul Yiannaki; and in-laws, Tom Tipton, Alice Yiannaki and Drew Wiltsie.
Family and friends may pay their respects 11 to 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at St. John the Forerunner Greek Orthodox Church, 4955 Glenwood Ave., Boardman, OH 44512, followed by a funeral service at noon.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman. Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.
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