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Verna Anne Harrison

This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.

Verna Anne Harrison

May 7, 1943 - October 31, 2023

Passed away peacefully at home in Colborne on Tuesday October 31, 2023 at the age of 80. Her beloved husband Doug of 62 years was by her side. Dear sister of Bill (Colleen), and Connie (Fern). Predeceased by her other brothers and sisters. Verna had a sharp mind and a quick wit. This allowed her to learn new talents quickly. For 23 years she worked with Doug, building and installing custom kitchens, unfortunately with little financial remuneration. As they built their 1850’s style stone home she became a capable carpenter and expert stonemason. When they built their 34 foot steel sailboat (considered one of the finest in North America) with good friend Dave Harris, she became a metalworker and welder, and on their subsequent cruise to the Bahamas, a very capable helmsman. She could drive anything from her motorcycle, old tractor to a hot rod or rail dragster. Verna was a great chef, seamstress, gardener, woodsman, canoeist, and a natural homesteader, and believed she lived in the wrong era. She was happiest walking the bush, winter and summer, discovering new wonders with constant 4 legged companion Sam. Together with her best friend and partner Doug, they travelled to NL, Germany and Austria and clean across Canada. A life full of wonderful adventure sadly came to a close after her strong battle with quickly declining serious health issues, leaving Doug and friends with great lasting memories. Verna went peacefully to sleep in her own bed with Doug by her side. We would like to thank our very capable and caring Dr. Brian Ling and Krista from Ajax, and two extremely compassionate Doctors who made her comfortable with the MAID procedure she chose. Verna celebrated life as she lived it, and to honour her, we ask that you do the same. A private family service will take place at a later date.

Message Of Condolence

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MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE / DONATIONS

Brian and Jennifer Kupke - November 24, 2023

Doug, we are so sorry to hear about your wife's passing. May all your great memories comfort you at this sad time. Sincerely, Brian and Jen

Doug and Wanda McIlwain - November 22, 2023

Hi Doug,…. We are so sorry to read of Vernas passing. The good times we shared with you and Verna so many years ago will never be forgotten. Take care

John Menzies - November 22, 2023

Doug, We are so sorry to hear of Verna’s passing. We have many fond memories of the good times we had in days past with the dragster and motorcycles. Our deepest condolences, John & Ellen Menzies

Bonnie and Connie - November 11, 2023

So sorry to hear of Verna’s passing. She was a true life partner, versatile and caring. From early days in Moose Lake she was always game to try something new - cheering Doug at the races, renovating houses, riding motorcycles, skiing, sailing even raising pigs. May she rest in peace.

Ken Swales - November 9, 2023

Doug, it’s with deep sadness to hear about your wife’s passing, my thoughts are with you and your family.

Cathy Macdonald - November 8, 2023

Hi Doug, this is Cathy, Sheila's daughter. I'm so sorry to hear about Aunt Verna. That is a beautiful picture of you and Verna. I spoke with uncle Bill and he gave me the sad new about her passing. He also said she was in alot of pain, may she rest in peace. Take care Cathy

Terry & Nancy Stopps - November 5, 2023

We know Verna and Doug, as friends to our daughter's family. For us Doug & Verna are remarkable because they were such a good couple, together ... so dedicated to each other. As a good team they were always ready to share their wisdom with others; and so it is no surprise that they became role models to those around them. At this difficult time, we offer our sincere condolences and heart-felt, best wishes for you as you move ahead.

Sherry Hamilton - November 5, 2023

We are very sorry to hear of your loss Doug. Our deepest condolences. Sherry & Alex Hamilton

Mary Norton - November 3, 2023

Dear Doug and family - on behalf of all of us at the library, we would like to extend our sincere condolences at this very difficult time - a light has gone out for you - may you find other "lights' to brighten the way forward. Mary, Sarah, Lisa, Barb, Alina

Greg & Bonnie Bilcox - November 3, 2023

Doug, our deepest condolences with the loss of your beloved Verna. Hold your precious memories close in the difficult days ahead. In our thoughts and prayers, Bonnie & Greg Bilcox

Dan and Jackie Smith (Town Gardener) - November 3, 2023

Dear Doug, we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Jackie misses the many chats with you in the town gardens. Your kind words to her are a true testament to the kindness you and Verna shared throughout your lives together.

Reg Herron - November 2, 2023

Doug I was so sad to here of Vernas passing . As I said yesterday we have been neighbours for many years and there will always be a place available at our Dinner table if you would like to sit in with us or we can bring it down to your door . As I mentioned yesterday and would like to repeat here we really want you to keep us informed of what we can do to help out in the coming weeks . Best Regards Reg

Wayne Mutton - November 1, 2023

So sorry to hear of Verna passing.Thoughts r with u Doug.Wayne&Marj.