Vern Adams Hunsaker

He was born July 7, 1933 in Los Angeles, California, the son of Fauntleroy and Mamie Priscilla Adams Hunsaker. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lauralee Hawkes Hunsaker.

He was raised in Los Angeles, California, graduated from Garfield High School, and obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education from Brigham Young University, and a Master of Science Degree in School Administration from California State University, Fullerton. He also obtained his teaching and counseling credentials.

Vern served in the United States Army on active duty from 1956 – 1958, and in the Army reserves from 1958-1962. He was stationed in West Germany and achieved the rank of Sergeant, receiving medals in expert rifle and marksmanship. He was proud of and appreciated his military service.

He began his career as a teacher and spent most of his years as a High School guidance counselor, loved and appreciated by his co-workers, and respected and remembered by the students whose young minds he helped shape and guide through patient encouragement and wisdom. He believed passionately in individualized education and opening doors for every student to achieve their own unique potential.

He was a talented photographer, even installing his own darkroom in the garage of his home. His talent captured countless treasured memories and relationships and left a photographic legacy that is cherished by his family.

Vern was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He touched many lives in his various callings, especially as Bishop, where he was remembered for his humility, compassion, and tireless service to his congregation. He served four missions for the Church. As a young man he served in the Central American Mission (1953-1956), and, after his retirement, he served three missions with his beloved wife, Lauralee. Together they served in the Washington D.C. North Mission (2004-2005), and twice in the Salt Lake City - Family and Church History Mission (2007-2009) and (2010-2012). He loved the temple and served weekly even before his retirement, working in both the Los Angeles and Newport Beach, California temples.

Vern will always be remembered for his ability to bring a smile to the lips of everyone he met. His sense of humor and endless supply of jokes brought laughter everywhere he went. His playfulness was legendary and his grandchildren loved to climb, ride, chase, and dance with Grandpa.

Vern is survived by his wife, Lauralee Hawkes Hunsaker, and their eight children: Brent (Laura) Hunsaker, Todd (Flory) Hunsaker, Julianne (Thomas) Cavanagh, Scott (April) Hunsaker, Cynthia (Gene) Shoulder, Mark (Andrea) Hunsaker, John (Mandy) Hunsaker, and Melinda (Brett) Hunsaker. There are presently 43 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Hunsaker. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fauntleroy and Mamie Priscilla Adams Hunsaker, his brother Gordon Hunsaker, and his sister, Kathryn Spencer.

The memorial services will be held Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 201 S. Livingston Ave., Placentia, California. Interment will be at Loma Vista Memorial Park in Fullerton, California.