Stavri Joseph Yanka

Stavri Joseph Yanka, 34, our beautiful and charismatic son, ended his life on November 7, 2021, after a very long battle with depression and substance abuse disorder. Steve was loved beyond words, but it wasn’t enough to shield him from the ravaging effects of his addictions, and our hearts are broken. Steve was gentle and kind, and a lover of all animals. He would drop anything at a moment’s notice to assist anyone who was in need. Steve also loved sports, cheering on the Patriots, Celtics or Red Sox whenever he had the opportunity. He worked various jobs trying to find his place in this world. Stavri was predeceased by his father, George Stavri Yanka of Southbridge, MA, on November 7, 1999. He leaves behind his loving parents, Joseph and Barbara Gallo of Longmeadow, MA; his sister and her fiancé, Alexandria Yanka and Randy Pascale, of Holyoke, MA; his step-siblings, Andrew Gallo and wife Julie of Weston, MA; David Gallo and wife Laurie of Willowbrook, IL; and Sabrina Gallo and wife Erin of Arlington, MA. He is survived by his maternal grandmother, Barbara Kroell of Spencer, MA, many aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and a nephew. Steve also leaves behind his long-time partner, Jamie Kolis of Adams, MA. Calling hours will be Friday, November 12, 2021 from 4pm-7pm at Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, 1475 N Main St. Memorial donations can be made to MOAR (Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery) 105 Chauncy St. Boston, MA 02111 or www.moar-recovery.org