Verna L. Homer, 88, died Feb. 11 at her home in Lakeside of acute myeloid leukemia. Her family cared for her during her brief illness and wishes to recognizes Hospice for their support and compassion.

Verna was born on March 12, 1921, in Farnam, Neb., to Martinus and Hulda Enevoldsen. Upon graduating from high school at age 16, she taught in a one-room country school for several years. She married Robert Homer in 1941.

One of her favorite memories was traveling by train around the U.S. with her toddler to be with Robert who was training with the Army Air Corps. Following World War II they lived in Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming, before moving to Arizona in 1968.They fished, hunted and camped in Colorado and the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming. Robert died in 1972.

Verna was employed in various hospitals and doctors' offices where she worked with Medicare and medical insurance billing, a challenge she welcomed. She enjoyed playing the piano, knitting afghans for her family and playing bridge. She lived life to the fullest and graciously accepted changes that came with aging. She will be remembered for her strength, kindness and love for her family. Her lifelong affection for all creatures great and small was with her until the end.

She is survived by three children and their spouses Peggy and Nick Lund of Show Low, Robert and Jill Homer of Albuquerque, N.M., Sheralyn and Larry Ilg of Nevada City, Calif.; two nieces, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

As she wished for them to be in a place she loved, this summer Verna's family will gather in Oak Creek Canyon to celebrate her life.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona; 2 March 2010.