DILSE, Norman Laverne born August 25, 1926 passed in his 94^th year on June 29, 2020 surrounded by his loving children.

Laverne is predeceased by his wife, Betty Schweyer and infant daughter, Janet.  Forever missing him are Paul, Shelley and Ward, son-in-law Daniel Wilson (Shelley), daughter-in-law Shannon McKay (Ward), grandchildren Aubrey Wilson Parker (Sean) and Carsyn Dilse. As the only son and last of six children on the Willows Farm (Canfield, ON), Laverne worked tirelessly to maintain the farm and raise a family with his loving wife Betty.  Known affectionately as a man of few words but always ‘true to his word’, in more recent years, he was never more proud of his three children and their spouses, his beautiful two granddaughters and the newest and very precious bundle of joy, his first great-granddaughter Hailey June Parker born on June 22, 2020.

Born in Seneca Township to parents Norman and Margaret Dilse (nee Ionson),  Laverne will always be ‘little brother’ to sisters Dorothy, Isabel, Renee, Muriel and Marjorie. For over 65+ years he led the farm operation while taking care of his family and Renee and while remaining ever close to all of his sisters, as well as an amazingly extended close family including the Powells, Armstrongs and Overends.  Over the years and through the Junior Farmers of Ontario, Laverne served as president of the Haldimand County chapter of the organization while his wife Betty served as president of the Junior Women’s Institute.  From his early days of selling eggs and poultry at the Hamilton Farmers’ Market, to carpentry and transporting livestock, Laverne loved engaging with others.

As those who know him will attest, Laverne always persevered.  In his final last days, he remained incredibly self-aware despite his rapidly progressing health challenges. A very heartfelt and sincere thanks to the many staff at both Chartwell Deerview Crossing Retirement Residence and St. Peter’s Residence at Chedoke for their tremendous support, care and compassion over the past seven years.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a funeral service will be held for invited family and friends at East Seneca Cemetery on July 2, 2020.In the spirit of his strength and kindness and during these very unprecedented times, please consider making a donation towards the charity or organization that you deem, would most benefit from your generosity and make a difference in the lives of others. Online condolences jwhartfuneralhome.com