Yan Hodkinson Dies Suddenly Days Before Christmas

Yan Hodkinson, a devoted father and partner, has tragically passed away at the age of 47. He died suddenly last week after battling serious health issues.

His partner, Jayne Chisnall, 46, expressed her shock in a heartfelt tribute. Yan and Jayne had been together for 29 years and shared three children: Jack, 20, Ruby, 16, and Max, 11.

Remembering Yan

Jayne described Yan as the “life and soul of every party.” She said: “He was amazing. Everyone who met him knew they had met him. He loved playing pranks on people. Everybody has a funny tale to tell about him.”

Health Struggles

In 2023, Yan was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a bowel disease, despite previously being healthy. Jayne said he became very ill but managed to get through it.

In late 2024, Yan began experiencing a hoarse voice and persistent sore throats. Initially, these symptoms were thought to be side effects of medication and treatment for tonsillitis.

In June 2025, Yan was diagnosed with stage four squamous cell carcinoma. Doctors said the cancer had started in his left tonsil and spread to his tongue, jaw, and neck.

Despite the grim diagnosis, his treatment initially seemed successful. Jayne recalled: “They let him come home and said he was doing well.”

Tragic Final Days

On Sunday, December 14, Yan suffered a carotid blowout, a rupture of the carotid artery, often caused by advanced head or neck cancer. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Jayne shared her grief: “He was doing so well, but because of the radiation and tumours around major arteries in his neck, it’s been fatal. It’s absolutely devastating. The children are heartbroken but have been absolute rocks.”

Support and Awareness

A JustGiving page has been set up in Yan’s memory. As a self-employed electrician, Yan was unable to work during his illness, and Jayne took leave to care for him, leaving the family without income. Funds raised will help cover funeral costs and support the children.

Jayne hopes their story will raise awareness about HPV-linked cancer. She said: “This year has been such a tragic and sad year. Me and the kids will miss him forever.”