James David Yonano, 82, of Turlock, California, passed away on September 9, 2025. He was born on February 3, 1943, in Urmia, Iran, to Luther David Yonano and Lily (Eshoo) Yonano.
James grew up in Kermanshah, Iran, where he enjoyed playing soccer throughout his teenage years and into young adulthood. Following his older brother George, he moved to the United States and settled first in Chicago, Illinois, before making his home in Memphis, Tennessee. It was there that he met the love of his life, Charlotte. They married in 1969, later welcoming their son Jason and daughter Joy.
In the late 1970s, James and his family relocated to California, where the Yonano family established the business Chemland in Turlock. Turlock quickly became home, and James reconnected with many extended family and friends from Iran, building a strong community through the Assyrian American Civic Club of Turlock.
James was well known for his warmth and generosity. Many will remember his “office hours” at Dan’s Family Restaurant, and later at Cindy’s, or at his table at the Civic Club, where he was always ready to listen and help resolve disagreements. He proudly served on the Grievance Committee of the AACCOT and was admired for his ability to bring people together.
James will be remembered for his quick smile, compassionate ear, and welcoming hugs. To know him was to have a friend.
He is survived by his children, Jason Yonano (Susan) and Joy Stansbury; his grandchildren, Graysen Yonano, Conlin Yonano, and Maximilian Stansbury; and his brother, George Yonano of Nevada.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Lily Yonano; his wife, Charlotte Yonano; his brother, Youbert Beteshooadeh; and his sister, Loren Eshoozadeh.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, from 4–7 p.m., and funeral services will be held on Friday, October 3, at 10 a.m., both at Allen Mortuary in Turlock.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Assyrian American Civic Club of Turlock or the Alexander Cohen Hospice House.
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