It is with a mixture of deep sadness and great joy that the family of Reta Eliza Gernon announce her passing from this world and into the next on Friday, September 25, 2020 at the age of 95 1/2 years.
Reta was born on April 10, 1925. She was one of 9 brothers and sisters to Fred and Ethel Barbeau (nee McBurney). Reta was the last surviving member of her generation. Her brothers and sisters included: Thelma, Lloyd, Dorothy, Russell, Harvey, Ralph, Jack, Joyce and Jerry.
Reta will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her son Robert (Bob) Gernon and daughter-in-law Sharon Gernon (nee McNeil) both of Gatineau, Quebec. Gram will be adoringly remembered by her grandchildren Kathy Shell (Windsor, ON), Marnie and Barry Brandl (Vernon B.C), Mike Shell and Patricia, Corry and Hali Gernon (Gatineau). Gram, as she was called by all of us, will be remembered affectionately by her great-grandchildren Kyrsten, Kayla, Jordan, Devin, Noah, Lucy, Sally, Evelyn, Addi and Ryder.
Reta was pre-deceased by her husband George Gernon in 1978 and by her daughter Bonnie Aleixandre in 2019. We know that they, along with Reta’s mom and dad, sisters, brothers and countless friends will be joyously celebrating her homecoming.
We all feel joy because Gram is finally released from the troubles of the past few years. We all feel so blessed to have known and loved Gram. She has been a keystone and a north star in our family as well as a role model to each of us. Reta always made time for us and willingly extended herself to care for us as individuals.
Friends are invited to visit at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. 705-759-2522) on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 from 11:00 am until 12:30 pm (maximum capacity of 40 people at a time, please wear masks). A private memorial service will be held. Friends are invited to view the service online starting at 1 pm and can be viewed anytime up to 90 days. Go to www.funeraweb.tv and select Reta's name to view the service. Interment West Korah Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions payable by cheque or online to the Alzheimer's Society would be appreciated by the family.
Gram, you guided us, taught and mentored us and most importantly you loved us unconditionally. You never held back from us. We could always count on you to tell us the truth as you saw it. You were strict when you thought you needed to be but beneath that sometimes crusty surface we always knew that we were deeply loved and highly valued. Thank you for all you did for us and above all thanks for being our Gram. Together we have laughed, cried, learned, grown and loved our way through life. But we’re not finished with you Gram, we are counting on you to keep watching over and guiding each of us from your new home. Someday we’re going to see you and hug you again. What a celebration that will be! Until then Gram we commit you to the care of a loving God and his angels.
Please visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave a message of condolence for Reta's family.