It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Valorie Ellen Burns (nee St. John), at Ross Memorial Hospital, Lindsay on Sept. 26 at the age of 76. Valorie was born on Sept. 22, 1948 in Aurora Ontario. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, stepmother, aunt, and friend. Valorie was predeceased by her parents, Lillian Adele St. John (nee Bennett) and Clarence Amos St. John, as well as her sister, Kathryn Adele St. John and nephew Christopher Franklin St. John. She leaves behind her beloved husband and partner of 32 years, Dave Gibson. Together, Valorie and Dave shared countless adventures, cherishing their time on their beloved boat, the ‘DAVAL’.
Valorie is also survived by her devoted family: her daughter Kim Burns (Kevin O’Brien), son Brandon Burns (Cheryl-Anne), and stepsons Mike (Debbie) and Jamie (Jen). Her dear sisters, Pat Tienkamp (Alan) and Colleen Nowak (Richard), along with 3 nieces also mourn her loss. Her home was always filled with love, laughter, and the playful antics of her cherished cats and dogs. Her legacy lives on through her treasured grandchildren: Dillion, Nick, Marissa, Olivia, Hudson, Beckham and four great grandchildren.
Valorie was a successful businesswoman, owning and operating a beloved hair salon in North Bay, where she shared her passion for hairstyling with the community. In 1994, she moved to the Toronto area, continuing her dedication to the craft, and later settled in Bobcaygeon, where she continued to provide great hair days for the past 23 years. Her love for hairstyling shone through in every aspect of her work. Valorie was known for her signature blonde locks, which were admired by all who knew her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.
An animal lover at heart, Valorie dedicated herself to rescuing and caring for feral mother cats and their kittens. She had a deep love for music and dancing, and her joyful spirit was felt by all who knew her. A jewellery enthusiast like her mother, she was always on the go—you'd better have your running shoes on to keep up with her shopping adventures!
Valorie’s strength and resilience were evident throughout her life, and she was known for her kindness and generosity. She was always there to help anyone in need, even when others weren't. A fun and adventurous travel companion, she loved road trips and travelling by train, though planes were never her preference. Her love for family and friends was unwavering, and though life took her on many journeys, the Burns family remained forever her family in every sense of the word.
Though she didn’t drink much, Valorie loved every minute of a good party, staying strong-willed and joyful until the very end. Her friends held a close place in her heart and really became extended family throughout her life, and she will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched.
As per Valorie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A service will take place at Hendren Funeral Home, Monk Chapel, 6 Helen St, Bobcaygeon on Saturday Oct. 26 at 1 p.m. Interment is to follow, with a time of fellowship and refreshments afterwards. Condolences and memorial donations may be made to the animal rescue cause of choice or to Craig’s Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society by calling 705-738-3222 or by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com.