In Loving Memory of
Verne Jackson
Sept. 7, 1924 - Sept. 22, 2006
“Those who love beyond this world, cannot be separated by it.”
Verne Jackson was born Sept. 7, 1924, in Edmonton, AB. In 1939 he joined the Royal Canadian Armed Forces serving overseas in Europe and was Honourably Released in 1945. He was decorated with the 1939-1945 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Star, Canadian Volunteer Service War Medal 1939-1945.
Just before the war’s end, Verne joined the Canadian National Railway in 1941. He devoted 41 years of loyal service to them. He made some good friends along the way who knew who he was and loved him for the “one heck of a guy” and good man that he was.
In 1986, Verne began working as a guard with the Smithers RCMP. He worked with them for 16 years. Over his years of service there, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal within the B.C. Corps of Commissionaires. He had a great sense of humour despite his tough and gruff exterior that he portrayed to the prisoners, however, he was very fair and treated them all equally. He very much enjoyed working with the RCMP and was most proud to have been a part of their team. He retired in 2002.
For those who took the time to get to know and understand him, one would soon find out what a quick, sharp and brilliant wit he possessed. Verne would get a twinkle in his eye before his “one liners” or “jokes” were delivered. He had great stories to tell when he was in the mood to tell them. Verne was a private person, rich in character but truly a softy deep down inside.
He valued the friends he had, both from his past and his present. He especially loved and cherished his friendship with Cathy and looked forward to her weekly visits. He was always impressed by Tim his “Man Maid” as he put it. Verne would say, shaking his head, “I can’t believe he pulls out all my furniture and vacuums behind it!” He would also mention a waitress he recently met. She would make him banana and zucchini loaves. He always appreciated the kind gestures.
Verne loved his family immensely. He was predeceased by his beautiful wife Shirley. He is survived by his daughters Verly Ives of Melksham, Wiltshire, and Kim Jackson of Vancouver, B.C., his granddaughters Holly and Penny and great-granddaughter Ella, also from England. Verne passed away at home on Sept. 22, 2006. He had been asleep in his favourite chair. When he left us, the sadness he felt of losing his wife Shirley and the effects of war, were finally healed. His spirit soared free.
We love you Dad. God bless...
In Loving Memory of
Shirley Jackson
Jan. 19, 1932 - Oct. 13, 2003
Dear Mom,
I loved you in this world and continue to do so beyond. I miss your zany laughter, your thoughtful, kind nature, your blue eyes sparkling, your smile, your voice, our Sunday phone calls. Thank you for coming to me in my dreams. I hope you continue to do so. My heart feels lighter knowing you and Dad are together again.
Love always, Kim
An Open House/Potluck will be held at the Jackson residence in memory of Verne and Shirley on Saturday, October 14, from 3 p.m. onward, at 3895-9th Avenue, in Smithers. Contact Kim, 847-2919.