Vernon Lee Heller

Vernon L Heller passed away at home on July 15, 2026 at the age of 77. Born November 20, 1948 to David and Margaret Heller in Pueblo Colorado. Vern lived also in Olney Springs and Westcliffe CO, later spending many summers in Westcliff helping with hay on the family farm. After his older brother David “Junior” was killed in action in Vietnam, Vern enlisted in the Marine Corps in June of 1967 honorably serving in Vietnam for 4 years achieving the rank of Sergeant. He received numerous medals and commendations including the Purple Heart that he fully deserved but never made a fuss over. Until the day he passed, he was a quiet force in supporting the US Military, the Marine Corps in particular, and was a lifetime member of the VFW.

Vern is survived by the love of his life Marilee (Hund) Heller and his precious granddaughter Madison Vazquez, who was like a daughter to him, her husband Francisco and great grandson Benito (Bennie) and great granddaughter Canela. His is also survived by his brother Larry Heller of Montrose CO and an extended family throughout Southern Colorado. He is also survived by his longtime friends and “adopted” son and daughter Randy and Lori Engel of Pueblo CO. He was preceded in death by his parents David and Margaret Heller, his brothers David and Terry and his beloved son Kevin Heller.

Vernon was a quiet, caring man who did many acts of kindness for friends and strangers alike usually without any knowledge by them. If you received an act of kindness and to this day are still wondering – it was probably Vern! He desired no accolades for any of his works that benefited many people. It was just his way.

A memorial service including a military honor service will be held at 2:00 PM August 14th at TG McCarthy Funeral Home at 329 Goodnight Ave Pueblo CO 81004. A Celebration of Vernon’s life will be held at a later date.