Verna Clara Smith (Venor)

With great sadness we announce the passing of our cherished mother, Verna Clara Smith (née Venor), age 89, of Thunder Bay, on July 17, 2023. Verna was kind, gentle, caring, patient, had exceptional inner strength and resilience, loved unconditionally, and was loved unconditionally.

Born July 17, 1934, in Fort William, Ontario, to Isabella (nee Wasylena Kohut) and Alexander Venor, Verna was sister to Frank, Albert, and Ron. After graduating from Fort William Collegiate, she was a secretary at Chapples until marrying George Duke Smith (1956). They had 3 children: Donna, Patricia [Pat], and Dale. Following George’s death (1975), Verna went back to school and graduated from Confederation College, and then held various positions with the City of Thunder Bay until retiring.

Verna had an unshakeable work ethic and was physically active throughout her life. She and our dad were outstanding bowlers and played many tournaments. She also played on recreational baseball teams along with other sports. Verna loved being with family, and enjoyed exercise, yoga, Tai Chi, gardening, trying new recipes, reading, movies, and in earlier days, she ran the Lakeview Presbyterian Church nursery. She also loved travel. Two special trips involved the discovery of her mother’s family in Ukraine, the only relatives she ever met aside from her parents and brothers.

Verna was predeceased by her parents, husband George, brother Albert, and partner Michael Krystalovich. She is survived by her children Donna (Donald), Pat (Scott), and Dale; her beloved Kitty; brothers and sisters-in-law Frank and Gwen Venor (England), Ron Venor and Evelyn Reid (Thunder Bay), Doris Venor (Thunder Bay), Lorraine Gordon (Grand Forks), and John Smith (Oregon); grandchildren Adar, Kai, Serena (Michael), Wanoni, and Taleah; cousins (Ukraine), great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Our heartfelt appreciation to Drs. Gillen, Nigro, and Silverberg and the renal team for Verna’s care over the years.

A mask-friendly service and reception will be held July 27 at 1:30 at Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel. The service can be attended virtually on Sargent & Son Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Kitty Kare, Faye Peterson House, or TBRHSC Renal Fund.