Dr. Vernon Frank Hodge

Born in Red Wing, Minnesota on November 3, 1940, Vern grew up in San Diego, CA graduating from Point Loma High School in 1958. He studied Organic Chemistry at San Diego State University, graduating with a BS in 1963 and an MS in 1966. He continued his studies obtaining a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of California, San Diego in 1970 with postdoctoral studies at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD, from 1970-1973.

Vern lived in California and Michigan before moving to Las Vegas in the 1980s. Drawn to the desert both for the climate and the research potential, he joined the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Environmental Research Center in 1982. He became an associate professor in the Chemistry department in 1988. Over the years he contributed to the development of the department of Chemistry and Biochemistry championing both graduate and undergraduate programs, retiring as Professor, Emeritus in 2021 after 39 years.


While at UNLV, Vern was instrumental in the formation of the department’s first graduate program in Environmental Analytical Chemistry, and also played an important role in development of UNLV’s first Radiochemistry program.

Vern enjoyed all aspects of his work—teaching, mentoring and research. He could often be found in his lab or out in the desert looking for samples. He also enjoyed time spent with his family, especially visiting favorite places in San Diego.

Vern is survived by his daughter Karen Weir (Scott), his son Dennis Hodge (Joyce), his three grandsons Christopher, Ian and Gabriel, and his brothers Tom Hodge and Steve Hodge, as well as extended family and friends who will all miss him greatly.

A visitation for Vernon will be held Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Palm Mortuary - Eastern, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123. A committal service will occur Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at External Service Location, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89120.