Mr. Vernon was born Aug. 13, 1913, in Whiting. He was the owner and operator of Vernon Manufacturing, Gypsum, retiring in 1978.

He was a veteran of World War II, serving as a staff sergeant with the 131st Ordinance Battalion in the European Theater. He was a life member of VFW Post 1432 and American Legion Post 62, both of Salina.

Survivors include his wife, Lillie, of the home; a son, Steven and wife Pam of Gypsum; three brothers, Merle of Apple Valley, Calif., Lyle of Lee Summit, Mo., and Glenn of Topeka; a sister, Phyllis Meier of Topeka; three grandchildren, Jessica Goertzen and husband John, Mary Gordon and husband Jason, all of Salina, and Zachary Vernon of Gypsum; two great-grandchildren, Riley and Cade Goertzen of Salina.

A private graveside service will be at a later date in Gypsum Cemetery, Gypsum.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth, Salina 67401, where the family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Cremation will follow the visitation.