Verne Joseph Lavoie

Lavoie, Verne Joseph 

May 8, 1933-June 14, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a beautiful man. Verne Lavoie, loving husband of Betty (nee Jackson) for 64 years. Father to Joe (Helen), Pennie (Mike), Chris (Kurt) and Rose (Peter). He will be missed by his many grandchildren Tyler, Jordy, Cody, Cadence, Marshall, Grace, Harland, Rose, Ben, Alex and great grandchild Shayla.

Predeceased by his wife Betty, parents Peggy and Bud Lavoie, brothers Ron and Jim, sisters Marley and Cathy. Remembered fondly by his sister Sally.

Verne was born in Parry Sound, Ontario on May 8th, 1933.

He began his career sailing the great lakes from 1951 to 1953 aboard the St. Heliers and the S.S. Bayton. During this time he served as a seaman, waiter, fireman and 3rd class stationary engineer. After coming ashore he started work at Orenda Engines Ltd. the test facility for the Avro Arrow engines, which was a source of great pride for him.

Soon after, he met the love of his life, Betty Jackson.

They married in Parry Sound in 1956, where Joe and Pennie were born, and soon headed south to Toronto to find work. They bought their first home in Oakville, where Chris was born, making the family complete. He found work at Goodyear and Purina, and got his 2nd class stationary engineer ticket.

After his dad passed in 1970, they decided to move north to be closer to his mom, and found work at the new Kimberly Clark plant in Huntsville. Their house in Huntsville wasn’t ready when work started so the family lived in 2 adjoining rooms at the Empire hotel for 2 months until moving in their forever home. 

Verne worked at Kimberly Clark as a Stationary Engineer 2nd class for 28 years without missing a single day.

His love for the water led him to many years of boating in his cabin cruiser on Georgian Bay with his beautiful wife Betty. They had many friends, and enjoyed lots of fun dinners with the Potlukker gang.

Together they cherished their grandchildren and enjoyed many years of retirement. 

He was an avid reader, movie watcher, loved to cook and enjoyed his cold beer. He was happiest cooking big meals for family, playing pool, listening to music and dancing with Betty.

Life took a turn when Betty was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s but Verne was able to keep her safe at home for many years until he lost her during Covid.

Cremation has taken place and family and friends will celebrate both Verne and Betty’s life at a later date.

As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Muskoka.

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