KAZAKOFF, Verna Kathleen

October 1, 1951 — April 5, 2024

Verna Kazakoff, beloved wife of Gregory “Greg” Kazakoff, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2024, in the Central Okanagan Hospice House in Kelowna, BC, at the age of 72.

Born Verna Kathleen Kane in Lethbridge, AB, to the late Robert & Doris (née Zmurchyk) Kane on October 1,1951, Verna was the youngest of six children. Her first six years were spent on the Kane Dairy Farm, five miles east of Lethbridge. She moved with her parents to Calgary in 1957, where her father established Kane’s Motorcycle Shop. After grade 12 graduation, Verna enrolled at the University of Calgary, where she met her husband, Greg. After completing her Degree in Computer Science, her career included working for the Federal Government, Calgary School Board (as a Program Analyst), and Interfaith Thrift Store Manager. She finished her career of over 20 years with the BC Oil & Gas Commission, in Victoria, BC and Kelowna. Her retirement came early when, unfortunately, she was diagnosed with Cancer.

Verna was especially close to her family, travelling with her parents before she was married, and in later years made many visits to Priest Lake, Idaho, where her dad kept a boat on the Lake. Then, when her parents acquired a Park Model in an RV Park in Apache Junction, Arizona, her journeys would take her there.

Verna was an avid collector all her life. Many will remember her turtle collection and her collection of anything of Royalty. As her husband had spent many years working with the Indigenous People, many artifacts made their way into their home, including 2 polar bear rugs.

Verna loved to decorate, whether it was at her place of work or in her home. Whatever the occasion, there would be streamers, banners or pictures. Just prior to her passing, her home was decorated for Easter, including her homemade Ukrainian Easter eggs.

Although Verna and Greg had no children of their own, Verna was a special “Aunty” to her many nieces and nephews, always remembering to send them cards, for their birthday or Christmas, with a few dollars tucked inside the card.

Besides her husband, Greg, Verna is survived by her siblings: Laureen Tetzloff (née Kane) of Lethbridge, AB; Glen & Brenda Kane of St. Albert, AB; Richard & Donna Kane of Calgary, AB; and Marilyn (née Kane) & Allan Shea of Calgary, AB. She was predeceased by her oldest brother, Bob Kane Jr, & his wife, Arlene, of Kelowna, BC.

Verna is also survived by her brother-in-law, Dennis Kazakoff & Joanne Bachynski of Calgary, AB. She was predeceased by Greg’s brother, Tim Kazakoff of Calgary, AB, and Greg’s parents, George & Nadia Kazakoff.

Many nieces and nephews survive Verna as well, with special mention to Susan Kane and Byron Kane & Melody Geddes of Kelowna, who were so supportive during her journey with Cancer. Also, special mention to her sister, Laureen, who was able to spend those last 5 weeks with her.

Following Verna’s wishes, she has been cremated, may she rest in peace and light, always.

A Celebration of Life for Verna will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, in Lethbridge, AB. Her final resting place will be Mountain View Cemetery. The time and specific location will be announced closer to the date.

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