Passed away peacefully on the farm surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at the age of 85. Cherished husband of Marilyn (Gambrill) Bilyea for 46 years. Proud dad of Jeff and Sperry Bilyea. Adored grandpa of Sophie, Jackson, and Andrew. Dear brother of Jack Bilyea and brother-in-law of Barry and Rosanne Gambrill. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and his 3 feline companions; Princess, Dottie, and Toe-E. Predeceased by his parents Norman Arthur and Anne Catherine (Sadler) Bilyea and sister-in-law Carolyn Bilyea.
Verne was a lifelong farmer and member of the Birr community. He was so proud of the land he tended and the home he and Marilyn built together. Verne enjoyed fixing antique Massey Harris equipment in the shop and was always interested in politics, supporting the Conservative Party.
A private family graveside will be held at Birr Anglican Cemetery at a later date. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, donations to LHSF – Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre would be appreciated by the family.
The family wishes to thank Dr. L. Saini and the staff in the oncology department at Victoria Hospital, Dr. D. Brown, and volunteers of Wheels of Hope through the Canadian Cancer Society.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Maureen and Bruce McGauley
Bruce and I send our condolences to you and your family for the loss of your dear Laverne. I was just walking past your lovely stone house the other day and was wondering how you were doing. I am sure this will be a big adjustment for you and hope to see you soon back at Siloam United.
Donna ,George, Robert and Jenna Hill
Our Sincere condolences to he family. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. We have many memories of happier times over the years with all the family.
Bruce Smith
Dear Marilyn & Family,
I am deeply saddened to learn that Laverne has passed away. I will always remain appreciative of him and the tireless support and friendship he provided to Heather and I. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
danthrasher
my condolences to the family . I met Verne through politics and he was always a pleasure to be with at meetings and functions.
Regards
Dan Thrasher
Margaret Watt
Marilyn and Family
Sorry to hear of Vern’s passing, Cherish your memories . Thinking of you at this sad time
Margaret Watt (Schendera)
Jeannette Bullick
Dear Marilyn, Jeff and Family,
We are so sorry that Verne has passed away..
It’s times like these to rely on God.
I’ve kept all of you in my prayers.
With Sympathy,
Jeannette and Doug
Edythe McPherson
My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow. I have great memories of the years Jim and I worked with Laverne at the many tractor shows.
John & Mary Walls
Marilyn and family;
Laverne was proud to be a farmer. He was a great supporter of his community. Thinking of you.
Jane McComb
Thinking of you and your family during this time. Jane, Steven and Nicole McComb
Pat and Reg Marshall
We are so sorry to hear of you and your families loss, Marilyn. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Lorraine Lewis
We were saddened to hear of the passing of your gentle Laverne. Our families have been connected for so many years and in so many ways. May your memories help you through the loss of such a kind, hardworking, loving husband and father.
Sincere condolences,
Lorraine, Wayne & Gayle Lewis & families
Brenda and Don Culbert
So sorry to here of Verns passing. So many memories over the years between my dad (Bob Duncan) and Vern. Our thoughts go out to the family at this difficult time.
Gabbie and Margaret Mol
Our sincere condolences with Laverne passing Had great memories in the past while involved with the farm equipment Our prayers are with the family