LINDA LOUISE VERNON

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LINDA LOUISE VERNON

(nee SAKNOVICH)

On September 16, 2023 we said goodbye to Linda Louise Vernon (nee Saknovich).

Linda was born in Winnipeg on January 15, 1947 and was a devoted wife, stepmother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Known to her grandchildren as Grandma Lindy and Babalou. She is survived by her loving husband, Donald Edward Vernon; and children, Cheryl (Gary), Marcie (Cary) and Joanna (Dan). She had many grandchildren, Cody Anne (Kristian), Jaeda, Colby, Dylan and Blake and one great-grandchild Otsonen (Oats). Linda was predeceased by her parents. Margaret and Michael Saknovich. She was a thoughtful, kind and generous woman who always had a smile on her face. She embraced the role of stepmother to three young girls with patience and grace.

Linda grew up on Bannerman Avenue in the north end of Winnipeg, the youngest of two daughters. She attended St. John's High School in a unique program designed for gifted students. She graduated high school at 16. She was exceptional, although she may have never felt that way.

Linda had an impressive intellect. She had a razor sharp, rapier wit. She excelled at answering questions while watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. No one would play Trivial Pursuit with her because she would always win by a landslide. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles. She was a successful Copy Writer and Creative Director throughout her career, eventually retiring as the General Manager of McKim Advertising in Winnipeg. After retirement, she continued to do consulting projects for the government.

Linda was an excellent cook. Her infamous quiche was incredibly delicious. She even created a special cookbook binder for Joanna and her family, featuring pepper and tomato recipes, which was very thoughtful, considering they farm peppers and tomatoes. Linda also compiled all her treasured family recipes into a special cookbook and passed on copies to the family.

Linda and Don were passionate about traveling and escaping the cold Winnipeg winters by spending time in warmer places, eventually putting roots down in Tucson, Arizona, where they spent winters together.

Don and Linda had a dream for years of moving to Vancouver Island. After Don's mother passed, that dream became a reality when they moved to Duncan and lived in a beautiful home in a golf community. They loved their time there but missed family and wanted to stay in BC, so they moved to Kelowna, where Marcie and her family reside.

Music was an integral part of Linda's life. She always played it in their home and knew the lyrics to all the songs, to which she would happily sing along. Jazzercise was another activity that Linda truly enjoyed. Linda also loved all things eclectic and enjoyed her thrift shopping time with Cheryl. Linda had a great sense of humour and would send the funniest birthday cards. Many amusing and memorable times were spent on our family golf retreats at Hecla Island.

Linda faced dementia in the past few years with courage and grace. She never lost her sense of humour or warmth. 19 months ago, she moved into full-time care when staying home was no longer safe. This was a difficult time for Linda and Don. Don didn't miss a day going to visit her at Glenmore Lodge. They walked this journey together until the end and looked forward to seeing each other daily. Dad would gently kiss her on the forehead when he left and say, "See you in the morning."

She will be missed by everyone who knew her. Cremation has taken place, and Linda's ashes will rest at Sunnyside Cemetery in a family plot in Springfield, Manitoba.

Rest in peace, Linda. You will be missed terribly and will always be in our hearts.

Until we meet again...

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 23, 2023