Peacefully, on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, following a sudden medical incident the day prior, Verna was called by her Creator in her 79th year.
The family takes comfort in knowing that she was not ill beforehand and did not suffer. Cherished mother of Mary, and predeceased by her daughter Sherry. Verna became a second mom to Sherry’s children (her grandchildren) Anthony, Jorden, Jeremy, Fantasia, and Jessie when they were teenagers.
Verna was especially close to her two great-grandchildren Malakai (age 4) and Arianna (age 2), who loved their Nana beyond measure. Verna is survived by her brothers Elmer, Cid and Joe, sister Eileen, and their families.
She spent all holidays and special occasions with her family, and they in turn will never forget how she filled everybody's home with love and laughter. As a member of the Garden River First Nation (near Sault Ste. Marie), Verna relocated to Toronto as a young adult and worked a variety of jobs over a long career, including serving as a caregiver and companion in a senior’s residence.
Verna enjoyed watching the Blue Jays and the Leafs, was skilled at crochet and knitting, and made wonderful apple pies and scones for people. A patient and non-judgmental listener with a wry sense of humour, she also loved playing bingo and socializing with her many friends at Wigwamen Terrace, where she resided for almost twenty years, as well as the many phone calls she enjoy with her family outside of Toronto.
Family and friends are invited to visit at the Garden River Community Centre (Shingwauk St., Garden River, ON) on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 11 a.m. until service time, on Sunday Jan. 28, 2024 at 12 p.m. at the community centre. As per her wishes, Verna will be interred at the Garden River Catholic Cemetery, a quiet and peaceful place where she will be near her daughter Sherry and many other members of her family.
In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution (payable by check or online) to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated. The family wishes to thank Toronto Ambulance Service and Mount Sinai Hospital for their compassionate care, the residents and staff of Wigwamen Terrace for their outpouring of support and best wishes, and of course Garden River for their support and helping with the funeral.
“Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile” Arrangements are entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton and Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East, Sault Ste. Marie, 705-759-2522). Online condolences and tributes can be found at www.arthurfuneralhome.com.