Vernon Kenneth Duerksen

His commitment to public service and education was evident across his career. Vern spent four years in the United States Air Force, and subsequently devoted 35 years to a teaching career in the public school system before retiring in 1985. He remained active in his church, community and professional affiliations.

The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude for the superior medical treatment provided by Linda Bartell, M.D. In addition, the compassionate care provided for three years by Mark Townsend and his staff at Caring Heart was simply unsurpassed.

Vern was preceded in death by his wife and partner of 58 years, Pauline Duerksen, in 2008.

Vern is survived by his two children, James K. Duerksen of Las Vegas, NV, and Cheryl L. Duerksen of Visalia, CA; grandchildren, Jordan, Jeffrey and Tyler Smythe, and Jacqueline Barker Duerksen; and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at Peoples Church, G. L. Johnson Chapel, on Friday, July 29, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Benevolence Fund at Peoples Church; or St. Agnes Hospice.