Dr Vernon Withold Krause, 1925–2026

Vernon Withold Krause, MD, FRCPC, passed away peacefully on 20 May 2026, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, at the age of 101, surrounded by his loving family. Born on 2 March 1925 in Bruderheim, Alberta, to Withold and Alice Krause, Vern lived a life marked by curiosity, empathy, and generosity.

Vern earned his medical degree from the University of Alberta in 1948. His career began in Mayerthorpe, Alberta, where he practised family medicine. In 1950, he married Isabel Merriman, an OR nurse he met at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton.

Driven by a desire to keep learning, Vern moved to Ontario in 1955 to specialize in pathology at Queen’s University and the University of Toronto’s Banting Institute, later working in pediatric pathology at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children. After settling in Halifax in 1961, he served as director of laboratory services at the then IWK Hospital for Children and the adjacent Grace Maternity Hospital and as an assistant professor at Dalhousie University. His publications, leadership, and contributions to his field were recognized nationally when he was elected president of the Canadian Association of Pathologists in 1981.

In 1983, Vern and Isabel returned west, to British Columbia, where he continued his career in general pathology with Dr C.J. Coady Associates, serving as chief pathologist at the then MSA Hospital in Abbotsford. Following his retirement, he remained engaged, taking on pathology locums in communities across the country.

Vern maintained an active lifestyle, playing tennis, cycling, fishing, skiing, sailing, and white-water rafting, in addition to his keen interest in the stock market, current affairs, and sports, especially when an Edmonton team was in the mix. He often crisscrossed the country to visit and support family. He traveled to six continents to fulfill his interest in history, art, and culture, accompanied by family, friends, and his longtime friend Dr Lynn Kobierski.

At age 90, he returned to Halifax, where he became a valued member of the Parkland at the Gardens retirement community. He participated with enthusiasm in activities like book club, painting, writing, and exercise classes. He enjoyed sharing medical news and insights at the weekly discussion group meetings. With his sharp memory, he delighted many with stories of his life experiences. His saying “Trying to stay in the game” captured his enduring spirit.

Vern is survived by his children, Shauna (Payson) Hunter of Halifax, Donald (Lois) of Mississauga, David of Ottawa, and Margaret (Monty Clemens) of Whistler; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his sister Barbara (Jim) Moscovich; and Alberta-based nephew and nieces. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Isabel; his brother, Gilbert; and his parents.

Memorial donations may be made to the IWK Foundation in Halifax.
—Margaret Krause
Whistler