Verna ABEL

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ABEL: Verna Hope (December1st, 1927- May 14th, 2013). It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Verna Abel on Tuesday, May 14th, 2013, surrounded by the love of her family. Verna was born on the family farm ten miles south of Waskada, Manitoba, to parents, Samuel and Lucy Gibson. She obtained her education while attending three schools: Arthur, Lyleton and Waskada. She graduated as valedictorian of her Grade X11 class in Waskada. Verna left home to attend a psychiatric nursing program in Selkirk but chose to return to Deloraine to become a permit teacher in Mimosa where she taught grades one through nine. She also taught in the Waterloo school district. Verna married Alex Abel on December 30th, 1950, a very stormy winter day. They had a quick trip to the States for a honeymoon and returned to farm at the Abel homestead in the Cameron district. Even with four kids under her wing she found time and energy to care for everyone she met. She also drove a school van and taught Sunday School at Cameron and Minnedosa. She took an active part in all aspects of community and church life. She was a life member of the Minnedosa Legion Ladies Auxiliary and a founding member of Minnedosa Meals on Wheels. In true “Verna form” her devotion to this project continued beyond 20 years of service. When she wasn’t volunteering Verna enjoyed curling, dancing, playing cards, visiting and travelling. Verna was predeceased by her parents and five siblings: Harry, Fred, Lloyd, Annie and Jessie. She is remembered by her beloved husband, Alex, son Lloyd of Winnipeg, son Murray (Brenda) of Minnedosa, son Barry (Anne) of Kelowna, daughter Margaret (Clayton) of Cadurcis, fourteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. Verna lived life to the fullest with her family and friends.We’ll miss you!Donations may be made in Verna’s memory to the Canadian Diabetes Association or Cancer Care Manitoba.

As published in Brandon Sun on Jun 01, 2013