Following a lengthy battle with cancer, Verna Vivian Newton of Spirit River passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at the age of 77 years.
Verna was born in Beaverlodge and raised in Spirit River where she resided her whole life. She enjoyed the small town and rural feel of her community and appreciated all that it had to offer. As well as being self-employed and doing the books for their business, Verna spent the winter months running the cafeteria at the Spirit River Arena.
She was known by the community as an avid hockey fan and was recognized for her ‘Ranger Special’ burger. It was the ideal role for her, not only did she love hockey and the kids, but her enjoyment of people and conversation were always fulfilled at the arena. During the summer months she was able to enjoy the outdoors; camping, boating, quadding, yard work, and tending to her greenhouse and flowers.
She loved to visit and had perfected the art of conversation and she could strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere.
Her outlook on life and her optimism were contagious, she could often be heard saying “It is what it is” and “It could be worse”.
Verna was predeceased by her husband Jim, her brother Arthur Pack, her nephew Brett Pack and her parents Vivian and Mildred Pack.
Verna will be missed by her daughter Sandy (Gerry) Douville, her granddaughters Jaden and Taryn Douville, her brothers and sisters Wayne (Olga) Pack, Jim (Marilyn) Pack, George (Lynn) Pack, and Roberta Pack and many nieces and nephews.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions there will be no Celebration of Life at this time.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Grande Prairie Cancer Clinic or to a charity of your choice.
Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home:
- 780-830-7742
- www.bearcreekfuneral.com