KERNA HAUGEN

HAUGEN, Kerna Marie Kerna Haugen (nee Gjesdal) passed away on December 11th, 2011 at the age of 94 years. She was predeceased by her beloved husband George in 1993; sisters, Kerna (her namesake) in childhood, Margaret (and husband Trond Tomtene), Alfhild (and husband Hanley Mitchell); and brother Selmer. Kerna is survived by her sisters, Myrtle (Clifford Swenson), Norma (Verner Arnestad), Alice (George Tastad); brother Harvey (Jennie), Selmer's wife Gladys; as well as many nieces and nephews. Kerna leaves to cherish her memory and legacy, her children, Kenneth (Betty), Harvey (Sylvia), Daniel (Beverly), Edna (Ron Bjorgan), Curtis (Janice), Sidney (Kathy); and her 18 grandchildren and their families, which includes 32 great grandchildren to date. Kerna was born in Lake Park, Saskatchewan, July 5, 1917. After high school and a business course she worked in Regina, North Battleford and Prince Albert. She met George at Christopher Lake Bible Camp and they were married in 1941. Their first home was on George's farm in Spruce Home. After 3 years they moved to the large brick house just south of Birch Hills where they farmed for 23 years as their family grew to 1 daughter and 5 sons. In 1967 they moved to a poultry farm near Kelowna where they farmed until retiring to Kelowna itself in 1972. After George passed away in 1993, Kerna continued to live in Kelowna until 2001 when she moved back to Saskatoon to be closer to family. After a sharp decline in health, Kerna spent her last few years primarily in the Warman Mennonite Special Care Home. Kerna will be remembered as a kind and caring person deeply dedicated to her faith. Her circle of friends included people of all ages and walks of life. She was a committed follower of Jesus, an active member of the Lutheran Church wherever she lived. She always had a special place in her heart for children. She taught Sunday school for more than 50 years and her face would light up when these children, years later, would greet her with a warm embrace. The Funeral Service, giving thanks to God for Kerna, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 16, 2011 at the Birch Hills Lutheran Church. Interment will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.grays.ca . Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Gray's Funeral Chapel, Drew Gray, Funeral Director (306) 922-4729.