July 5, 1955 - July 21, 2018
Passed peacefully with his wife at his side. Vern was predeceased by his mother and father, Tokuko and Akira, and by his brothers Rhys and Lance. He is survived by his wife Brenda, children Greg (Kat) Yoshida and Morganna (Adrian) Clarkson, and his five little monkeys, his granddaughters; Astrid and Persephone Yoshida, and Miranda, Rosalyn and Kaylee Clarkson. He also leaves to mourn extended family and friends.
Born in Toronto, Vern moved with his family to Nanaimo at age 3. He graduated from NDSS in 1973 and UBC in 1977. Vern and Brenda married in 1978 and raised their family in Cedar. Vern worked as an adjudicator for the Worker's Compensation Board for many years.
Having grown up in the family's restaurant The Grotto, Vern loved feeding people and was an excellent and innovative cook. Following his children into theatre he became an expert prop maker. He took up pottery after losing much of his vision and spent many happy hours throwing at the wheel. His determination and love kept him with us for much longer than expected. He leaves behind a legacy of love and tilting at windmills. . . and winning.
A memorial gathering will be held August 18th at 1 pm at the Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Rd. In lieu of flowers or donations please read a story to a child you love.