Vern was born on November 7, 1923 in Portland, Oregon and he was the son of Louis and Celina (Lambert) St. John. He attended high school in California and in 1941 he enlisted in the United States Navy. He honorably served during WWII receiving an honorable discharge in 1945 in Bunker Hill, Indiana. On April 23, 1945 he married Mildred Lloyd in Ohio and they later moved to North Portland. In 1952, they moved to East County.
Vern Worked in Construction and later as a bus driver for Grey Hound for 2 years. His main occupation was that of a Truck driver. He drove for Freightways and PIE retiring in 1983.
Vern had many hobbies. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and camping. He also enjoined photography and playing cards. He loved to drive and drove just short of 3 million miles in his truck driving career. He also grew fond of traveling in his retired years. Vern was a good father; very involved in his children’s lives and activities. He had a great sense of humor and loved his grandchildren. He was a lifelong member of the Gresham Elk’s Lodge and the Silver Sneaker’s Gym Club.
Vern is survived by his wife, Mildred of Portland, son Gary St. John of Rockaway Beach and daughter, Nancy Needham of Oregon City along with 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. His son, Dale and sister Yvonne both preceded him in death.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 11:00 am at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home in Gresham. Visitation will be on Wednesday, December 1, 2010 from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm also at Bateman Carroll. Interment will be at Willamette National Cemetery. Contributions can be made in memory of Vern to the Children’s Cancer Association.
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