He was 82 years old.
Vern was born in Anacortes, Washington on June 13th 1937. He was the middle of 6 children born to the union of his parents, Evelyn & Charles Orcutt.
As a kid, Vern grew up on Lopez island, then moved to Anacortes, Oregon.
While attending Sultan high school, the family moved to Seattle and Vern graduated from Roosevelt high.
Soon out of high school, Vern joined the Navy. During the 4 years that he was enlisted, Vern operated as a transportation pilot, running the launch boat from ship to shore.
Vern was an absolute MASTER at operating a boat.
When he returned to Seattle, Vern started working in construction. Then, while Vern was staying with cousins on Lopez Island, he attended a dance where he met the love of his life, Terry.
The couple were married on the 2nd of December 1962.
They purchased a house in Alderwood Manor where they lived for 3 years. And this is where they were blessed with their daughter, Tomi Rae, who was born on August 27th 1963.
Later, they moved to Lake Forest Park in Seattle, where they lived for 10 years – until their daughter wanted a horse!
So, they decided to move north and buy property, large enough so Tomi could have her horse. They bought 2.5 acres in Arlington and built a beautiful home there, which has been the family home ever since.
Vern wanted to learn how to fly, his wife bought him flying lessons for Christmas. Vern took those lessons and loved flying so much that he continued to fly with his “learner’s permit” for the next 13 years!
Finally, his instructor said, “Take the test, you’re the best pilot on the field!” Vern was even a flight instructor, but had never taken the test. He didn’t want to fail. But when he finally DID take the test, he aced it!
Vern was a fun and adventurous man. He enjoyed scuba diving, boating even time the sun would shine and traveling in their motorhome.
Vern & Terry own Artistic Drywall for 40 years. He would say, “She’s management and I’m labor”. Vern worked until he was 70 years old, since he really enjoyed being the field man with the guys and training new people on the job.
Anyone who knew Vern, said that he was a really hard-working, sweet and compassionate man with a good heart. He loved children and spending as much time as he could with his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Evelyn & Charles Orcutt and his siblings Francelia Orcutt, Evelyn Charlotte Oleson, Lorraine Levey and Robert Orcutt.
Those who remain to cherish Vern’s memory include his wife of 57 years, Terry Orcutt, his daughter Tomi Rae (Ian) Sage, his grandchildren Dexter, Morgan, Weston & Loryn Thompson Sage, his brother Dewey Orcutt – as well as numerous nieces & nephews and beloved friends.
Vern’s final resting place will be at the Arlington Municipal cemetery, next to his parents. A Celebration of Life event will be held in Vern’s honor at a later date.
We will all miss Vern. And we will treasure his memory deeply in our hearts, forever.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at Weller Funeral Home website for the Orcutt family.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Vern’s honor.
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