Obituary
Merle Edith Varty (née McDonald) passed away peacefully at St. Paul’s Hospital on January 30, 2021 at the age of 81 years.
Merle was born on January 20, 1940 in Humboldt, SK and grew up in Wiseton, SK where she completed her schooling followed by attending Teacher’s College in Saskatoon. Growing up, Merle had a love of music, she played the piano in her family’s orchestra, taught piano lessons and enjoyed many hours playing her piano and organ.
On February 3, 1962, she married Basil Varty of Wiseton. Basil and Merle made their home in Wiseton where they raised their children and lived in their original home until recently when they relocated to Rosetown. She was a dedicated mother who emphasized the importance of family and a good education and instilled strong values in their children. Basil and Merle enjoyed many family holidays with her children and grandchildren and travelled to many destinations far and near in their retirement. They also looked forward to time spent with family at their cabin.
Merle was active in the Forgan CWL, parish council, school council, community groups, quilting club, ceramic club and birthday parties with her girlfriends. She was sweet and kind and always concerned about her family and friends. Merle always saw the best in people.
Over the past 25 years, Merle had many serious health challenges. She faced them with deep faith, a positive attitude and determination. Her loving husband Basil was by her side as a caregiver and a constant source of support, helping her through time and again. Despite these health issues, Merle lived life to the fullest, always on the go. She never missed an event involving family and friends.
Merle is survived by her devoted husband Basil, daughters Janet (Ross) McDonald, Patti (Gerald) Anhorn, Cheryl (Rob) Thorpe, son Donald Varty (Chastity), grandchildren Kent (Jenn) McDonald, Alysse (Jeff) Perron, Carter Anhorn, Nicole (Austin) Connor, Tyson Mucha (Erin Barnes), Emily, Noah, Ben and Owen Varty, Nakia (Fabian) Dale, Benson and Jordan Thorpe, great-grandchildren James, River, Jacob, Jade and Jordan, sister-in-law Rita (Donald) McDonald, brother Jack (Claire) McDonald, sister Wendy (Dennis) Paddock, auntie Winn McDonell (Bill), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Merle was predeceased by her parents Hugh and Dolores McDonald, sister Mary Louise McDonald, brother Donald McDonald and son Gordon Kenneth Varty.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated followed by Rite of Committal at the Forgan Cemetery.
In memory of Merle, donations may be made to the Wiseton Memorial Hall c/o Donald Varty, P.O. Box 296, Elrose, SK, S0L 0Z0.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Merle Edith (McDonald) VARTY, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Merle Edith McDonald VARTY January 20 1940 January 30 2021 (age 81)..
Death notice for the town of: Rosetown, Province: Saskatchewan