LTC (Ret.) Vernon E. Staum

In June 1952, Vernon received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of South Dakota, and his commission as Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Vernon’s Infantry career began at Ft. Benning, GA; he retired as Lieutenant Colonel, US Army Special Forces, on August 31, 1980. His foreign assignments included Korea, Germany and three duty tours in Viet Nam. He was most proud of his leadership at the US Army Pacific Command/Republic of Viet Nam (USARPAC/RVN) training school in Viet Nam. Vernon received numerous distinguished service awards, including three Bronze Star Medals.

Vernon was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Marietta and active in numerous area retired military organizations, including the North Georgia Retired Military Association. He enjoyed sport parachuting, gardening, walking his dachshunds and letter writing. He was married to Barbara Holmes for more than 20 years.

Vernon is survived by his niece, Mary (Ron) Minske of Mesa, AZ, and two nephews: Dwayne (Joan) Staum of Central Point, OR and Darmon (Kay) Staum of Elk Point, SD.

The family will receive visitors at H.M. Patterson and Son Canton Hill Chapel, 1157 Old Canton Road, Marietta, on Tuesday, July 8 from 11am to 12pm. Burial with full military honors will follow at 2:30 pm at Georgia National Cemetery, 1080 Veterans Cemetery Road, Canton, GA 30114.

Condolences may be expressed at www.hmpattersoncantonhilll.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2922 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta, GA 30066.