Verna Louisa (Irving) Sallenback, beloved wife of Leon Robert Sallenback, of Lethbridge, returned to her heavenly home on Sunday, August 31st, 2025, at the age of 99 years.

Verna was born on August 7th, 1926, in Taber, to Adam Clifford and Louisa (Dragoo) Irving. She enjoyed an idyllic, happy childhood on the family farm, located 2 ½ miles west of Barnwell. Six more children would eventually join the family, with Verna eagerly welcoming each one. As the firstborn child, Verna assumed much responsibility in their home, but always considered it a joy to support her parents and siblings in any way she could. She remained close to all of them throughout her life and was very proud of her family heritage.

Growing up, Verna attended schools in Barnwell and Taber, and enjoyed many valued friendships during that time. Later, she attended the Galt School of Nursing, from which she graduated in 1947. She and Leon were married the following year, on November 3rd, 1948, and sealed in the Cardston, Alberta Temple. Together, they built a progeny that includes 4 children, 13 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.

An avid green thumb, Verna exercised great care in attending to the beautiful flowerbeds and gardens she grew each year. Another one of Verna's passions was the large collection of dolls she accumulated and cherished throughout her life. Her calligraphic-style handwriting was impeccable. She was also a talented seamstress, handcrafting many blankets and quilts that her posterity continues to hold dear.  And all will forever cherish the many special holiday dinners, each one prepared with love and great skill – her Christmas dressing, date-filled cookies, and nuts n’ bolts were the best!

Throughout her life, Verna devoted herself to family, friends and faith, accomplishing much good in the service of others. Above all else, she was a loyal wife and loving mother. Her quiet strength and unwavering commitment to loved ones, was evident in all she did. Later in her life, this same attention was returned to her in great measure, as she required increased support in recent years. In addition to the tender care and devotion shown to her by her loving husband, her family will be forever grateful to her dear friend and neighbour, Jean Shepherd, whose friendship and good humor kept Verna going well beyond anything they could have imagined. Thank you, Jean!

Verna is survived by her husband, of nearly 77 years, Leon, along with their four children: Dianna Grant (Phil) Shepherd, of Grimsby, ON; Bonnie Straga, of Lethbridge; Patsi (Jim) Earl, of Sylvan Lake; Dean (Cindy) Sallenback, of Lethbridge – and their families. She also leaves behind two siblings: Donna Grunewald, of Courtenay, BC; and Barilyn Sopel, of Taber. Beyond her parents, Clifford and Louisa Irving, Verna was preceded in death by siblings: Kenneth Irving, Sunny Crane, Marilyn Thomson, and Blayne Irving; and by son-in-law, Don Grant.

At Verna’s request, no funeral service will be held. She will be laid to rest at the Barnwell Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Salmon and Sons Funeral Home.