Makiko (Maki) Yonenaga passed away peacefully in the early hours of August 24, 2025, with her dear friend Sharon at her side, following a courageous seven-year battle with cancer. She was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words.

Maki was predeceased by her beloved father, Kiyoshi Yonenaga, and by her dear adopted Canadian father, Ken Curl. She is survived by her cherished family in Japan: her mother, Tamaki Yonenaga; her sister, Yuko Konaka; her niece, Harumi Konaka; and her brother-in-law, Kazutoshi Konaka. She is also remembered with deep affection by her extended family in Japan, including many aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as lifelong friends. To her loved ones in Japan, she was affectionately known as Mako.

In Canada, Maki built a second family around her dearest friend of nearly 40 years, Sharon Curl. Sharon and her extended family embraced Maki as one of their own, including Bonnie; Don (with Helen Mary); Gord (with Patty); Darlene (with Mike); Alex (with Rika and Callum); Chris (with Stephanie, Kenlee, Emmeline, and Oliver); Olivia (with Chester); Lindsay; Marla; Nevada; and Tanner. Her presence enriched the lives of each of them, and the bonds they shared will be treasured always. Maki’s heart was especially warmed by this extended family, whose love and support sustained her throughout her battle with cancer.

Maki also had a broad circle of beloved friends in Canada, whose relationships she deeply cherished. Among them was Jason Chamney, who supported and stood by her throughout her illness, and she remained deeply grateful for his friendship.

Maki loved animals, none more than her beloved cat, Willie.

Originally from Kobe, after a career in Japan in international trade and as an English teacher, Maki co-founded Vancouver Maple Leaf Language College in Canada with Sharon, which later became part of Oxford International. Her passion, insight, and steadfast support were key to the school’s success. Sharon often described Maki as “the wind beneath her wings,” a testament to the strength and dedication Maki brought to their shared vision. She cherished the relationships she built throughout her career with colleagues in Canada and around the globe.

A gifted connector, Maki formed deep and lasting bonds with colleagues, students, and business partners. She was known for her wisdom, generous spirit, and her ability to bring out the best in others. Maki was also remembered for her impeccable style and astounding memory for facts, people, and dates. She loved her home in Canada, but her connection to Japan remained strong and ever-present. She especially loved when her friends and colleagues visited Japan and made it her mission to turn every trip into a successful and memorable experience.

Maki was an avid traveler who explored more than 80 countries throughout her life. Her sense of adventure, love of culture, sharp wit, extensive knowledge, and deep curiosity about the world shaped the way she lived and inspired all who knew her. She used to say, “Been there, done that,” as she checked another destination off her list. Though there were still many places she hoped to visit, it was this constant anticipation of the next adventure that gave her joy and hope, even in her most difficult times.

Throughout her illness, Maki showed remarkable resilience, bravery, and grace. She left no stone unturned in her pursuit of treatment and faced every challenge with courage and unshakable dignity.

Maki’s life was a journey filled with adventure, laughter, kindness, thoughtfulness, curiosity, and deep compassion. Her spirit touched countless lives, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the joy of knowing and loving her.

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A celebration of life will be held for Maki on March 28 at the Pinnacle Hotel located at 138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver at 3:00 PM. The memorial will be followed by a reception with refreshments, alcohol, and snacks until 6:00 PM. Donations in her honour can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.

Note: The Pinnacle Hotel will offer special rates for out-of-town guests. Please contact Sharon if you need accommodation. Kindly pass along this information to any friends of Makiko.

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