Verna Keeler

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend, Verna Doreen Keeler, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the age of 86.

Doreen was born in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, and raised in Ponoka alongside her nine brothers and sisters. She was the last surviving sibling of her family. 

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Janette (Bud) VanMaarion and Sandra Thomas; her son, David Keeler; her grandchildren, Chad (Kim) VanMaarion, Chas VanMaarion, Steven Thomas, and Vanessa Thomas; her great-grandchildren, Madison VanMaarion, Sebastian Thomas, Alexander Thomas, and Holly Randell. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, all of whom knew her as the fun-loving aunt who always had a smile and a laugh to share. 

Doreen was predeceased by her loving husband, Dennis, after 65 wonderful years of marriage. We find comfort in knowing they are together once again. 

Family was the centre of Doreen’s life. She was incredibly proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she remained supportive, interested, and curious about their lives right up until her last day. 

Doreen will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humour, kind heart, and creative spirit. She loved spending time with family and friends, playing bingo, creating diamond dot art, and making a wide variety of crafts. Dennis was the woodworker, and Doreen lovingly brought many of his creations to life with her beautiful painting, especially the decorative figures that brighten their garden.  

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctor and the exceptional staff at Didsbury Continuing Care for the compassionate care they provided to Mom. Your kindness and dedication you showed her went above and beyond, making her final year one filled with comfort, dignity, and joy. We will be forever grateful.

 In keeping with Doreen’s wishes, there will be no funeral service or Celebration of Life. The family invites you to honour Doreen by sharing a happy memory, a smile, or a story that reflects the joy and kindness she brought into the lives of so many.