Vernon “Bud” to his family, was born June 13, 1932 in Berthoud, CO to Adam and Mary Sterkel. Vernon was predeceased by his mother and father, brother, Herman and sisters, Wilma, Florence, Velda and Myra. He leaves behind his wife, Gladys, son Vernon Jr, daughters Pam and Phyllis; grandchildren, Whitney, Cole (Shawna) and Tyler (Mallory); great-grandchildren, Madlyn, Aspen, Emery, Charlotte and Gwendolyn and his sister, Deanna Magsulit of Phoenix, AZ.
He had a genuine respect for everyone, no matter your circumstance; never judgmental and always willing to lend a kind ear or a helping hand, but most of all he truly loved his family.
His Life: After leaving school in the 8th grade, he left Berthoud as a young teen to venture off to California with his childhood friend, Frank Hummel, to pick grapes for the summer, only to return weeks later. Vern and Frank remained “best friends” their entire lives. He returned to Berthoud where he later met his sweetheart, Gladys. They were wed on July 27, 1952 in Loveland CO. Vernon was drafted into active service in the US Army in October 1952 and served in Korea until July 1954. When returning from active military service, Vernon then served in the US Army Reserves for the next six years.
After serving in the military, Vernon and his family resided primarily in the North Denver area. The family also lived in Loveland CO. While in Loveland, Vernon worked at the Great West Sugar Factory. The family also lived in Platteville CO where Vernon and Gladys farmed. Vernon’s primary occupation was a truck driver throughout the years. He later worked as a mechanic for Jefferson County Road and Bridge, until the time of his retirement.
Vernon, Gladys and family moved to Lakewood CO in 1966 where they resided until late August of 2021. Vernon moved to MorningStar of Littleton in September of 2021 where he resided until the time of his passing.
We will miss him dearly, but we are so grateful for the time we shared with him.
We will remember him in our hearts forever.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the following charity of your choice:
DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Charitable Service Trust
Easter Seals Foundation
The Alzheimer’s Foundation
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