Iris Evelyn Yaskal

Iris Evelyn Secord Yaskal born on September 25, 1926, in Middletown, New York, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at her daughter's home in Aquebogue, New York, surrounded by love. 

The daughter on Evelyn Secord and Turk Catazone, Iris was a force to be reckoned with- opinionated, strong-willed and deeply independent. She lived fiercely and unapologetically, always on her own terms. 

Iris began her career as a stewardess (flight attendant) for Colonial Airlines and later eastern Airlines. After marrying her beloved husband, Capt. Bernard Yaskal, an airline pilot for trans Caribbean and subsequently American Airlines, Iris boldly reinvented her career. She returned to school and earned her Associate's Degree in Applied Science in Nursing from Farmingdale Sate College, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Stony Brook University, and her Master's in Community Health Education from Adelphi University. She also held both LPN and RN certifications.

Dedicated to the care of others, Iris spent many years working in outpatient therapy at the Islip Clinic before relocating to Virginia to be closer to her daughter and her only grandson. There, she continued her work in healthcare at Southern State and Western State hospitals. 

Iris and Bernie were the proud parents of two children: Randy Beth Eve Yaskal Pitrowski (Bill Pitrowski) and Todd Harrison Yaskal. She was a devoted and loving grandmother to her grandson, Jaison Abrahm Burke. She was also deeply love by her feline companion of 18 years, Smudge Yaskal. 

A celebration of Iris's life and her burial at Calverton National Cemetery will take place one year from the date of her passing. 

In lieu of flowers the family ask donations be made in her name to East End Hospice.