Vernon passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 6, at Shuswap Lake General hospital with his family at his side. He was 84.
Vernon was born in 1925 on his family’s homestead near Kinloch, Saskatchewan. After serving in the Canadian army during World War II, Vernon settled in Mission, BC, where he met and married Connie Lock. Vernon, Connie, and their five children lived in Prince George for many years before moving to Salmon Arm in 1972.
A committed union man, Vernon was a proud member of the IBEW during his 30 years as an electrician. He was a strong supporter of social democratic causes and institutions including the Council of Canadians and CCPA. Always a prairie boy at heart, Vernon recreated a Saskatchewan farm in his backyard garden. He was famous for his garlic and homemade bread.
Vernon’s warm, open, and accepting nature endeared him to many with whom he might share a joke, a smoke, or a hug. He was inventive, industrious, and dedicated to his family. He helped his children to build science projects, Christmas gifts, and various household contraptions. Vernon was a shrewd poker player and a great dancer, especially to old-time waltzes. A voracious reader, he was a regular visitor to the public library.
Vernon will be sadly missed by his wife Connie, children Colleen (John), Donna (Derek), Tim (Dawn), Kevin (Raquel), and Marina; grandchildren Liam, Mackenzie, Dakota, Lucas, Brandon, and Hilary; sisters Orma and Elda and brother Emery; and by extended family and old friends. A celebration of Vernon’s life will be held Friday, Dec. 11, at 2 pm, at the home of Tim and Dawn Alstad (832-0577). Friends are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Salmon Arm Food Bank or the Salmon Arm Rescue Unit will be gratefully accepted.
Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.