VERDA JOAN MCDONALD

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VERDA JOAN MCDONALD

We sadly announce the passing of Verda McDonald (nee Peden) at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the age of 91. She was the middle daughter of three girls born to Bill and Phyllis Peden. Verda will be lovingly remembered by her children, Rick, Paul (Claudia) and Daren (Edith) as well as grandsons, Dustin and Ethan. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Dick in September 2014 and her sister Karen Craddock in 2021. She is also survived by her sister Linda (Larry) Garmaise of Peterborough and brother-in-law Dave of Saskatoon.

She was born and raised in Brandon where the local YMCA played a large role in her youth. She was involved in gymnastics, swimming and basketball. She enjoyed music and dancing, attending many concerts over the years, and she played the organ and piano for her own enjoyment. Verda enrolled in Brandon College in 1951 and was employed by the YMCA for four years to teach gym and swim classes which helped to finance her education. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (as Lady Stick) in 1955 and completed her Bachelor of Pedagogy in 1956. She married her husband of 58 years in 1956 and they taught at Dauphin Collegiate for two years.

They returned to Brandon in 1958 where Verda taught at Brandon Collegiate, Neelin and Vincent Massey High School while Dick finished his degrees at Brandon College. Then Verda stayed home to raise their three sons.

She began many years of volunteering in the community. She served seven years on each of three Boards: The Brandon Schools Instrumental Music Association, The Brandon University Alumni Board and the Board of Fairview Nursing Home. She became President of each Board during her term. Verda was a member of Trinity United Church since its opening. She taught Sunday school and was as member of the UCW.

Verda supported her husband throughout his teaching and financial career and his strong involvement in the Artillery Reserve with the 26th Field Regiment where he served as Commander and later Honorary Colonel. They both maintained strong ties with Brandon University and have contributed generously to the Funding Campaigns and Scholarships. They were members of the Kinsmen and K40 service clubs, the Wheat City Golf Course and some bridge clubs. They liked to cruise and visited many countries around the world.

A private family Celebration of Verda’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, if friends desire, donations in memory of Verda may be made to the charity of choice.

Condolences: www.brockiedonovan.com

As published in Brandon Sun on Feb 21, 2026