Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Dear
Nick, John and families, I am very sorry to hear of Verna's passing. Although I have not seen either of you in decades I was fortunate to see Verna many times over the years. I need to let you know just how special she was and how kind she could be. In the fall of 1962 my family moved from Winnipeg to Brandon. We moved into a house on 8th street in the North End. I was just 13, had never been to Brandon before and was expected to re-start grade 7 at David Livingstone school. The first day at school the only person to say "hello" to me was Verna. It really helped a lot and I never forgot her kindness to me that day. Many times over the years we would often see each other shopping, at some event or just walking down the street. We always said "hi" to each other and she always asked me how I was doing. You know it's funny but I always believed Verna was one of those people who genuinely did care how you were doing and wanted to hear you were doing well. Like everyone, Verna had her ups and downs yet when I would ask her how she was doing she never complained about anything or anyone. The picture on this Life Page is perfect, that is the same smile I saw that first day over nearly 60 years ago in the new school and every time I saw her over the years. Although I will miss our brief encounters I will never forget that smile. Rest easy Verna you earned it. Phil Horkey
