Iona (Vasbinder) Major

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Iona Major of Elliot Lake. Beloved wife of Donald Major (deceased). Iona passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at the age of 86.

We are devastated to have to say goodbye to our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, but in keeping with their positive spirits, we remember Don’s famous words of encouragement, “Take things one day at a time”. Iona is now reunited with Donald in heaven after a short time apart. We lost Don on April 6th of this year.

Iona AKA “the boss” was a devoted, loving wife and best friend of Don for 65 years. Together, they built a fun-filled, rich, and joyous life where they raised their sons Brian (deceased), wife Johanne and Norman (Carole), and adopted mother to, Keith Grahl (Joan). Iona and Don had special admiration for their nephew Andre Major, who stood by them as a true friend and always provided a helping hand in their times of need.

She was an incredibly special Grandmother to Eric (Victoria) and Andrea (Wesley) and a cherished great-grandmother to Tristan, Skylar, Brayden, and Calvin. Eric and Andrea have many fond memories of spending their summers at Grandma and Grandpa’s for swimming lessons.

Iona will be dearly missed by her siblings, Marie and Corbet (Susan). Iona especially cherished her long-time friendships with Anne Snell, Claire Paquette (John), and Joan Coventry (Ralph). Iona’s close-knit relationships mattered greatly to her. They spent many evenings gathering for conversation over card games.

Iona was a long-time resident of Elliot Lake, born in Cornwall, ON, on January 11, 1940, daughter of the late Agnes and George Vasbinder. She was a retired elementary school teacher who never stopped teaching; many loved ones will account for the great lessons she taught us.

Iona was a part of the Catholic Women's League, Sewing Club, Rod & Gun Club and Elliot Lake Waterfront Owners Association. She was passionate about flower gardening, fishing, snowmobiling, playing cards with friends, entertaining, and hosting dinners. She loved to spend time with friends, going to camp, cooking, baking, and especially having a 4 o’clock happy hour with Don.

A celebration of life has been arranged, a funeral mass will be held at 11 am on Thursday June 11, 2026 at Ste. Bernadette Parish in Elliot Lake. Burial to follow in Woodlands Cemetery.

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