VERNA MAY BOAKES

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VERNA MAY BOAKES

In the early hours of June 29, 2022 at age 102, Verna May Boakes peacefully completed her story here on Earth.
She was predeceased by her husband Harold in 2003 and her father and mother in 1985 and 1995 respectively. As well, Verna outlived all eight of her siblings and their spouses.
Verna, the eldest of nine children, was born May 18, 1920 in Dauphin, Manitoba, to parents, Walter and Florence Carruthers. Verna grew up on the family farm, attending Halley School and later boarding in the town of Dauphin in order to obtain her high school education. After high school, wanting to see more of what the world had to offer, Verna accepted a job working in the kitchen of a mining operation in Bissett, Manitoba. It is while working here that one day, she accepted an invitation to go for a walk from a nice young man working at the mine as an assayer. That walk forever altered the course of Verna's life. She and Harold Boakes were married July 11, 1941 and for the next 61 years, were each others' confidant, best friend and true love. Together they were gracious hosts, beautiful ballroom dancers and world travellers.
Verna went on to enjoy several different jobs in her adult life; one of the most pleasurable for her was managing a ladies' dress shop, Belle's, on Osborne Street. She always had a quiet elegance about her, classy but never over-stated. Her appreciation for fashion remained with her for her entire life.
Verna was a homemaker and care giver. She loved to entertain and was chef/baker extraordinaire. Verna was hosting Christmas dinner and other dinner parties well into her 90s.
In 2015, Verna moved to Kiwanis Courts Assisted Living where she grew to enjoy the support and friendship found in this style of living. Her neighbour across the hall, Ken, became a very important part of Verna's life. Ken became family. His help, companionship and kindness enriched Verna's life tremendously.
Verna was truly a remarkable lady and epitomized the phrase "growing old gracefully." She remained physically active, socially and cognitively engaged and fiercely independent until the end. The world was definitely a better place with her in it.
Verna will be placed to rest in Peace Niche at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens on Friday, August 19, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. To attend, please meet at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue.

For those who wish to sign the
online Guest Book please visit www.chapellawn.ca

Chapel Lawn Funeral Home
204-885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 13, 2022