Michael Charles Verner

Michael was born April 20, 1942, in Evansville, IN to Charles A. Verner and Marie Setmeyer. He joined the US Navy while in high-school and graduated in 1961. He was stationed in California after graduation and served overseas during the Vietnam War. During his time on the USS Kearsarge, he saved 9 of his fellow shipmates during a battle, and later received an honorable discharge. After his military service, he earned a degree in engineering while working for the Shell oil company.

On February 15, 1974, he married Maritza Landron of Long Beach, CA. He worked for many years as an engineer before taking a different career path and opening his own business. He was an inventive entrepreneur and had many different businesses. Michael channeled his lifelong love of animals by raising game birds and opened Cal Pheas Exotics. This business was very successful, but Michael wanted to share his love for the natural world with others so he opened the Long Beach Zoo. In his time he also had a pet store, manufactured pet products, owned several tree nurseries, and manufactured and sold yachts. In 2018, he and Maritza retired and moved back to the Midwest. They chose Eldon, MO as their new home. While in Eldon, they opened The Verner Farm and Nursery.

Michael is survived by his wife of 51 years, Maritza Verner; and his children, Shelly, Michael Jr., Edward, Steven, and Melissa; a brother, David Verner; grandchildren, William & Ash Lopez Muñoz, Makayla & Elija Sewell, and Charles Sewell; many nieces, nephews and a loving extended family. He was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Hargan and his parents.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO 65202 or to the Wounded Warrior Project PO Box 758516 Topeka, KS 66675.

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com