Born in Humphrey, NE, he was the oldest of seven children. Preceded in death by his parents Bruno & Ann Labenz, several siblings and wife Evelyn. Survived by children Judi Thelander (Jeff), John (Debbie), Joani Eledge, Joe, Jim (Michelle), Janet Menchaca, 20 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and many other extended family members. Mass of Christian burial at St. Margaret Mary's, 1-30-21, 10:30 a.m. Visitation 9:30 a.m. Memorials to family or St. Croix Hospice.
Vern grew up on a rural farm, learning the value of hard work. Delivering milk before school every morning was one of his chores. He was a WWII Veteran, spending 15 mos. in Okinawa, Japan. Once out of the Army, he worked and retired from Union Pacific Railroad. He loved being a part of the Ham Radio world and enjoyed learning how to use a computer, doing genealogical work and creating an extensive family tree. Vern was a steadfast husband and always there to help his 6 J’s with projects, big or small. He was a skilled handyman and enjoyed leather crafting. A man of few words, with a hearty laugh and loving smile, you always knew you had a place in his heart.
