Peacefully in her sleep at Muskoka Landing after a long and diverse life. Mern is pre-deceased by her father Fred Parker, her mother Mary Ellen (Hares) Lawrence, her step-father John Lawrence, her brother Norman Parker and her sister Reta Sinclair. She is survived by her brother Bud (Barbara) Lawrence and was the beloved aunt of Wendi (Steve Hancock) Barker, Judi (Don) Ferne, Gary (Sue) Parker, Mary (Eric) Adams, Sandy (Toni) Sinclair and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.
Mern was born on the family farm in Allensville, Ontario, baptized at Christ Church, Port Sydney and confirmed at All Saints Anglican Church in Huntsville where she was an active member in the Altar Guild and A.C.W. And the Sunshine Club. She taught Sunday School and was also a founding member of the Archives Group of All Saints.
Mern attended school in Bracebridge, Huntsville and Owen Sound before heading to the University of Toronto where she obtained her B.A. and then attended the College of Education where she earned her teaching diploma.
Mern returned to Huntsville and taught at Huntsville Public School for an incredible 40 years. She was a well loved teacher and mentor to many over the years.
Mern was an active member of the Huntsville Horticultural Society, Club 55 and Muskoka Pioneer Village. She was also a member of the Retired Teachers of Ontario (#5 area). Mern loved travelling and covered most of the world during trips with friends. She loved sports especially skating, skiing, canoeing, badminton and bowling. She spent many hours at the family cottage she loved on Rebecca Lake. She was an avid bridge player and a generous contributor to the community.
Heartfelt thanks to the staff of Rogers Cove, Muskoka Landing and Pashience for all they did to make Mern’s life peaceful and fulfilled. She will be missed and fondly remembered by many friends and family especially her niece Wendi whom she fondly referred to as her “right hand girl”
A memorial service for Ms. Mern Parker will be held at All Saints’ Anglican Church, Huntsville on Friday, December 19, 2014 at 2pm. Reception to follow at Sutherland Hall.
In lieu of flowers donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.
Donna-Marie Bowers (Newell)
My sincere condolences to the family of Miss Parker. I have very fond memories of a special teacher. A wonderful loving spirit she always gave to people. Donna-Marie Newell
Mary Beth (Mawhiney) Robinson
A true lady and a great teacher.
Christie Johnstone
Rest in Peace Miss Parker. Thank you for being the kindestmost loving teacher and person ever !
Steve John Woolman
Ms. Park was the one of the greats teachers I had growing up, always kind & thoughtful!I was at her 100th and would not have missed spending that time with her!
Bless her for being in our lives!
Linda Scott
What a wonderful life she led. Hugs and condolences to all the family