Verne Thomas Howe

Verne Thomas “Tom” Howe:  We are saddened to announce the passing of Tom on June 15th, 2020. Tom was born May 13th, 1947 to parents Mary & Tom Howe. He was welcomed by big sisters Bev and Sharon and eventually became a big brother to Richard. Mom and Dad are now gone, but all siblings survive, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He grew up and received his education in Portage la Prairie. He loved to skate, play hockey, cadets, enjoyed being in Anglican Church Choir, and eventually was very involved in music of all kinds. Tom also earned his BA.

Tom worked several construction jobs around Portage, and during those years he became father to his beautiful daughters Tricia and Tanya. He moved to Medicine Hat Alberta in 1979 and worked as a Child Care Counselor. While living and working in Alberta, he met and married Jocelyn and became step-father to Markus. Following some time in Medicine Hat, they moved to Lac la Biche. During his time there, he started a Cadet Corps which is still running to this day. They then moved to Ontario. During his time in Ontario, he became very serious about his music and joined the Skyway Bluegrass Group. After five years in Ontario, he brought Jocelyn and Markus back to Portage to be closer to family. He spent the happiest 19 years of his life here. He got to spend time with his family, and enjoyed great times with his daughters Tricia (Keith), Tanya (Ryan), stepson Markus, and his granddaughters Megan, and Karli. He also leaves behind a grandson Alan in Alberta. Also surviving him are Jocelyn’s brother Malcolm, Doug (Connie), Rob (Yvette), and many nieces and nephews.

Tom loved people. He accepted all for who they were with no expectations and no judgment. When he was involved in something, he was all in; when he wasn’t involved, he was all out!

Often in conversation with people he would ask “has anyone told you today? – if not let me – I love you. I’m “in love” with my wife, but I love you”.

                                                                                         Serenity Prayer

                                                  God, grant me the Serenity, to accept the things I cannot change

                                                                      the Courage to change the things I can,

                                                                      and the Wisdom to know the difference.

                                                      Arrangements entrusted to Ronald Moffit Memorial Services

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