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Yvonne “Nobie” Trevor Millar Clarkson died peacefully in her home at Legion Village in Cobourg on December 5th, at the age of 97, with her two sons and their wives by her side. Nobie was a long-time advocate of Medical Assistance in Dying. When recently diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour, Nobie chose MAID to limit her suffering. Her family are immensely grateful that she died peacefully on her own terms, with such compassionate end of life care.
Nobie is survived by sons Brian (Marg) and Doug (Pat), grandchildren Casey (Mark), Ian (Sandra), Chris (Kristin) and Trevor (Jenny) and great-grandchildren Eloise, Henry, Orin, Andi, Liam, Audrey, and Reece. She was predeceased by her cherished husband Bruce in 1994 while they lived in Haliburton.
Born in Toronto, Ontario on October 25, 1927 to Kathleen Trevor and Joseph Millar, she was named Yvonne but lovingly nicknamed “Nobie” by her adoring maternal uncles.
Having studied dress design as a teen, Nobie loved fashion and amassed a considerable collection of both stylish clothing and unique jewelry. She loved the Christmas season, and collected thrifted treasures and family heirlooms all year long to give as gifts to her family, always impeccably wrapped.
Nobie was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Independent, wise and forward-thinking, she gave up her own home to move into Legion Village in her late 80s but continued to drive her own car until age 96.
In anticipation of her impending death, Nobie graciously called or visited with her many friends. She dazzled everyone with her quick wit until the very end. When asked the question of how she would like to be remembered, she said simply “I cared”.
At Nobie’s insistence, there will not be a funeral, memorial service or celebration of life. Nobie told us she had always felt happy in the forest. Her cremated remains will be scattered by her grandchildren in the woodlands of Switzerland, Arizona, Vancouver Island, and New Brunswick.
Twenty years ago I met Nobie when I joined the volunteers at Petticoat Lane. She made me feel so welcome and useful. A wonderful, kind, informed lady with a grand sense of humour, and she sure knew how to dress. She never would say how she had the nickname Nobie - would say it was a long story. Now her obituary has revealed all! I sure will miss you, dear friend. Alma
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Cancer Research Society
Nobie was the NICEST of nice people. An aunt by marriage, dearly loved by Judy and I. On the few times I met her, Nobie always had a smile and a kind word for me. When Judy and I were first engaged, Nobie and Bruce hosted a family "Get to know Tom and welcome to the family party", I was so nervous, but Nobie made me feel welcome and included. Nobie will be remembered and missed by evertone who met her.
We are saddened to hear of Yvonne's passing. She was a wonderful woman and we are grateful for her 19 years of volunteerism with the Northumberland Hills Hospital from 2001 to 2020. On behalf of the NHH staff, volunteer team and NHH Auxiliary board we send our condolences to Yvonne's loved ones.
Brian and Marg, Doug and Pat...... Our sincere condolences to you and your families at this time of loss. This is such a beautiful tribute to your mom. Aunt Nobie was a wonderful, one of a kind, caring lady. She will be missed. Her legacy will live on. Kathy and Barrie Clulow
Brian & Marg my sincere sympathy to and your family for your loss. Bonnie
Nobie was a valued friend with a wonderful sense of humour and a long time volunteer at Petticoat Lane. She will be missed. Rest in peace; you deserve it.
Brian, Marg, and the rest of the family - I’m saddened to hear of Nobie’s passing, but glad that she was able to do so on her own terms. She was always such a kind and generous person, and I always loved our chats. Peace to all of you
It was a pleasure knowing Nobie. She will be greatly missed by all. She was always smiling and well loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing Nobie. ❤️ So glad she went out of this world on her own terms.
Nobie, I didn't know you. I agree with your stance on MAID service and the no-funeral gig. You have inspired me to do the same. Bravo to you.
What a pleasure it was to be called “friend” by Nobie. She was always so fashionable and fun to be around. I shall miss her. My sincere condolences to Brian, Doug and the entire family.
Brian and Marg and family - Sincere condolences on your mother's death. She sounds very special - may your friends and family help you through your loss.
Dear Brian, Marg and family, Your words reflect a life full of compassion and vigour. We send our condolences for the loss of a remarkable woman. The loss of a parent is always significant and we wish you the best at this time of change within your family.
My sincere condolences to Nobie's Families, Such a beautifully written obituary for a beautiful, kind lady. I had the pleasure of knowing Nobie from Legion Village, I served her in the dining room for over 7 years. She was always so happy and always a lil story/chat each time I saw her. Every time during lock downs I would always make sure she got an extra soup, that she loved so much. She will surely be missed
Brian and family. So sorry to hear of your loss. I am sure you have many memories to help you through these difficult times. Ron Wiebe
To Nobie's entire family, especially Brian & Marg, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences. A dear woman like that will be missed by many. Even though we never knew her, it certainly sounds like she had a life, very well lived. She can now rest in peace. Glenn & Nancy Bailey
A genuinely wonderful lady who touched every one of us in her own special ways! Her smile, her laughter and her quick wit is going to be sorely missed by all of us. Her sense of caring for others was evident even in her last few weeks. She wanted/ needed to know that everyone would be cared for in the times ahead. Her family was her priority and she made sure to tell us not to be sad but to go on with our lives. She was a gem and will live on in her sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren!
We are sending our love and prayers to your family.
Sorry to hear of your mom's passing. She outlived my own parents by many years. You are fortunate to have been able to live close by. I'll pass this info on to Fran