Vernon Lee Humphrey

During the depression (1937) his family, like many escaped the “dust bowl” by traveling west. They made

their way to California settling in Patterson. In 1941 he moved to Modesto where he lived the remainder of his life. He attended Washington Elementary, Roosevelt Junior High and Modesto High School. Vernon

was no stranger when it came to work; he began working at the age of 14 for the Pacific Grape Cannery

during (summer) the harvest season. He worked for Milk Producers Association for more than 27 years

after which remained in the dairy industry an additional 7.5 years.

However, his true love and passion was anything with an engine. This led him to a career with The

Modesto Bee. He began his tenure as the Fleet Service Manager on his 48th birthday in 1979 and remained an integral part of keeping newspaper delivery to homes across the valley until his retirement in 1998. Perhaps one of his proudest accomplishments was his innovation, daily supervision and building of a state of the art maintenance shop for them. After his retirement he was recognized by, The Modesto Bee with a bronze plaque dedicating the building in honor and appreciation of his expert planning and development of the building. Vernon was also a veteran serving in the United States Army.

He is survived by his children- Gary (Susan) Humphrey, Daniel Humphrey, Cheryl Albers and his bonus son Mike (Paula) Sherman. Three grandchildren- Bryan and Bradley Albers and Brett (Christina) Humphrey. Five Great Grandchildren- Bradyn, Kinsley, and Hunter Albers; Olivia and Caleb Humphrey. Beloved Sisters-Jo Ann Oliver and Shirley Hischier. Vernon also is also survived by extended family members; along with a plethora of friends.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at 10:30AM at Lakewood Memorial Park 900 Sante Fe Avenue, Hughson, CA 95326. A reception will follow at Trinity Presbyterian Church 1600 Carver Road, Modesto, CA 95350.

Donations can be made in his honor to Stanislaus Animal Shelter, SPCA of Stanislaus or your favorite

charity