Tribute

Vernon Herbert Anderson passed away in Cranbrook on Friday, July 18, 2014 at the age of 89 years.  He was born in Rose Valley, Sask. to Axel Anderson and Carrie (nee Westby).

Vern was the fifth of eight children, and he was pre-deceased by sister Amy (1915-1998), brother Clarence (1917-1969), sister Evelyn (1919-199….), and brother Walter (“Andy”) (1921-1996). He is survived by brother Colin (1926) in Cranbrook, brother Milo (1928) in Yuma, Ariz, and sister Ferne (1932) in Detroit, plus many nieces and nephews and their families across North America and some in Sweden.

Vern was a piano tuner in the early 1950’s and a drilling contractor in the 1950’s and 60’s, with his nephew Gerald.  He was also a roofing contractor in the 1980’s. He would often go to Mexico for holidays.  He always phoned his brothers and sisters on their birthdays, a very important duty to him.  Vern also enjoyed the futures market and stock options, which was later enhanced by computerization. For many years, he was a member of the Vedder Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion in Chilliwack and in later years enjoyed the monthly senior’s tea dances; he loved music.  He consistently met with his old-timer group at McDonalds in downtown Chilliwack on Friday afternoons.  This went on for years as he enjoyed talking with people. 

Vern came to Chilliwack in 1979, previously living in Vancouver in the Beach Towers in the West End on English Bay and on Angus Drive in the Shaughnessy area.

With him at the time of passing was Irene Mitchell, his friend and companion for 40 years.  He was in the process of moving to Cranbrook with Irene to be closer to his brother and other relatives, having just attended a family reunion in Cranbrook in late June.

A Memorial Service was held at Mark Memorial Funeral Home in Cranbrook on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at 4:30 pm – just one day short of his 90th birthday.

He is remembered by all as a very kind and gentle man.