Passed away peacefully on March 8, 2024, at Bridgepoint Hospital, Toronto, at the age of 96, after a long and valiant battle with heart failure. He spent his final days surrounded by family. Beloved husband of the late Dorothy Mould (née Webster). Loving father of Lauren (husband Glen) and Valerie; grandfather of Caleigh, Maddie, Toby, and Will; and great-grandfather of Daisy, Teddy, and Annie. Predeceased by his mother, Alice; father, Joseph; and brother, Maurice. A distinguished artist and historical interpreter, Vernon's childhood was defined by intense commitment to the arts (sketching and piano) and a keen interest in Canadian history. At the age of 16 he was awarded a scholarship to attend the Ontario College of Art (OCA), where he met Dorothy Webster, who would become his wife. Together they studied under such notable Canadian artists as Franklin Carmichael, Rowley Murphy, Yvonne McKague Housser, John Alfsen, and Emanuel Hahn. Also while at OCA, Vernon's work caught the eye of famed painter Manley Macdonald, who took Vernon under his wing as a protégé. Vernon was renowned as a museum designer, filmmaker, and creative thinker. He spearheaded the inception and design of Sainte Marie among the Hurons as a National Historic Site, for which he received numerous awards, including an Honorary Doctorate (LLD) from the University of Western Ontario for leadership in the field of historical interpretation. A masterful draftsman, Vernon illustrated over 40 books, many of which ran for multiple editions as staples in Canadian history curriculums. Vernon's success as an historical illustrator positioned him as a natural successor to the great CW Jeffreys; whom Vernon admired and occasionally collaborated with. Vernon's work as a landscape painter displayed virtuosity, sensitivity, and deep connection to the natural and built environment, particularly downtown Toronto (both modern and historic). His painting was characterized by precise and elegant brush work that emphasized the contours of his subject matter within a tonalised colour composition. His works have been exhibited most notably at the Roberts Gallery, Arts and Letters Club, Canadian National Exhibition, Prince Arthur Gallery, and St. Lawrence Market Gallery. It is held in many private collections as well by the T.D. Bank, City of Toronto, and Upper Canada College (UCC). He taught and worked at UCC for 57 years (1947-2004), many of them as head of the school's art department. A gifted educator, he was a central figure in developing UCC's art curriculum and facilities. In his later years, he held significant roles within the school's administration, including Secretary to the Board of Governors and Vice Principal. Vernon fostered a sense of wonder and inspiration in his grandchildren. He loved to take them on trips to museums and art galleries, share old music and movies, and always had time to speak with them about subjects of interest. He was happiest when surrounded by family: particularly at Christmas and summer nights at the cottage. Having selected a favorite album to play (often Ella Fitzgerald) he could then be found in the kitchen preparing a batch of martinis for everyone to enjoy before dinner. The time after meals was cherished by all as a chance to unwind and watch movies together. Special thanks to the palliative care workers at Bridgepoint Hospital. A private cremation ceremony has been held with family. A memorial exhibition honouring Vernon's legacy is being planned and will be held in Toronto in the future. Notices will be published to indicate the location and time. Please feel free to contact
[email protected] with any questions or thoughts.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Mar. 30 to Apr. 3, 2024.
