Vernon George Patrick Groskopf

Vernon George Patrick Groskopf, born on June 10, 1936, in Falmouth, Jamaica, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, in Markham, Ontario. Vern was a beloved family member, known for his sense of humour, warmth, kindness and he was always ready for a good time. He loved unconditionally and welcomed all into his heart.

For 20 years, Vern served in the Canadian Armed Forces having many roles such as his time as a Band Leader, Paratrooper and towards the end of his career he served as a Safety Technician with the 434 Squadron at CFB Cold Lake in Alberta. Vern also had a successful career as a Corrections Officer at the Don Jail until a work accident left him with a career ending back injury.

Vern, a proud family man, was devoted to his wife and children and extended family. He gladly and willingly opened his heart and home to extended family throughout his lifetime. A variety of family members lived with Vern and Lillian at some point, many while establishing their home in Canada from Jamaica. Vern was proud of his Jamaican heritage and loved sharing food and memories at all family functions. These family gatherings were filled with laughter and love, as he always ensured that every guest felt welcome and at home. His great sense of humor and ability to bring people together created memories that will be treasured by his family for years to come.

In addition to his career and family life, Vern was an avid curler, having played during his time in the CAF, and throughout his younger days. After he could no longer curl, Vern discovered golf and this became his new passion. Vern's vibrant personality enabled him to make friends wherever he went, including the many summers he and Lillian spent camping across the United States and Canada, finding adventure wherever they landed. They made many lifelong friends spending winters in Florida, a time they cherished every year. In later years Vern loved his Discovery Channel and learning new things, frequent talks and visits with his sisters and spending time with family and friends when they came to visit.

Vernon Groskopf is survived by his daughters Pam Durrell (Kevin, deceased), Liza McLennan and his son Lance (Annette). He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Cole and Mitchell McLennan, Jordan and Ryan Groskopf, Jeremy Durrell and Kristen Durrell-Wills along with his great grandchildren Tanner, Brooklyn, Colter and Zayden. Vern's legacy continues with his sisters, Olive (Saleem, deceased) and Pam (Rene, deceased). He also leaves behind his beloved sister-in-law Carmen Chown, and brother-in-law, Ken Chown along with his many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family who will miss him dearly.

Vernon George Patrick Groskopf will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His passing has left a void in the family that can never be filled. His generous heart, exuberant personality, and unwavering dedication to family and friends serve as an enduring legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to consider making a donation to the Markham Stouffville Hospital. Although his stay there was short, we could not have asked for better, more compassionate care.

To honour Vern, we ask that you wear your best "Island Attire" to the internment being held on Tuesday, August 12th at 11am at the Innisvale Cemetery and Crematorium located at 7551 Fifth Side Rd. Innisfil, ON L9S 3S1. There is a reception following the brief service at the Innisfil Funeral Home located at 7910 Yonge St, Innisfil, ON L9S 1L5