Vernon M. Hixon, 79, of 2509 5th Avenue South, Escanaba, passed away Sunday morning November 30, 2008 at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba following a lengthy illness.Vern was born August 25, 1929 in Munising, MI the son of Elvin and LaVina Bell (Mongar) Hixon. He was raised in Dafter, MI and he was a graduate of Trout Lake High School.
Vern was united in marriage to the former Angeline Marie (Poglese) on April 25, 1949 in Sault Ste Marie, MI. They made their home in Gladstone where they raised their four children.
Vern proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He served his first duty out of McChord Air Force Base in Washington, where he was stationed in Alaska. Shortly after his honorable discharge, he was re-drafted into the U.S. Army where he served in Korea. Vern was a highly decorated honorably discharged veteran.
Early in Vern
Leora (Oss) Harsh - Flagstaff, AZ
Marvin, I am so sorry for your loss. Nothing that is said will take away the pain. Just know I remember her and you as my favorite people who were so comfortable to be with. And the many memories of the high school days. Blessings and a peaceful journey.
Anonymous
Chuck and my brother Duane and I have been friends for over 70 years. We were in kindergarten together and grew up doing many things with each other, graduating in the exceptional class of l954, which was filled with leaders and scholars. Chuck was an outstanding member of our class of 82, but more importantly he was one of the nicest friends we could ever have. I was so glad that he stopped in Sparta just before his trip to Europe and we had coffee with another of our dear friends Don Usher. He made it to our 55th class reunion but was very concerned to have left Shirley for that long. We have many stories to treasure including knowing his parents. He was very special.Incidentally I was the president of our class and have kept pretty close track of members. as near as we know Chuck is the 16th to pass so 20% of us are now gone to our reward. Our Blessings to the family.
Don Bradford
Sparta MI
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back, may the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
An Irish Blessing
The Bernson’s
Gladstone MI
Just received Brother Chuck’s passing notice, We in the Upper Peninsula’s Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, The Albert & James Lyon Camp #266, will miss Bro. Chuck very much. We will conduct a Veteran’s Service at a later date.
Bro. Gary C. White, PCCommander
Gwinn MI
Chuck hired me at Bay College in 1983, and he was the best boss/mentor I ever had. I learned so much from Chuck and truly attribute my success at Bay to him. I will always have a special place in my heart for him. Our sympathies to his family – we will miss him!
Glen and Mary Leisner
Escanaba MI
To the Gold Family,
You have my deepest sympathy. I was fortunate to serve with Chuck on the Brampton Township Board and enjoyed working with him very much. I cannot make the visitation or services today but will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers today and in the future.
Wayne Johnson
Gladstone MI
We are sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. I remember him from Bay College and my 92 year old mother remembers him from bowling. God Bless the family.
John & Irene Yirsa
Grand Ledge MI
To the family of Charles Gold,
It was an honor and pleasure to have known him. I enjoyed my visits with both he and Shirley., I continue to grieve his absence and find myself wishing for “just one more” visit.
Barb Wasie NP
Gladstone MI
Chuck hired me to teach at Bay College 24 years ago. He was a great person, and he will be missed by all. God Bless
Ann Markell
Iron Mountain MI
To the Chuck Gold family,
I remember Chuck as a valued employee who worked hard and contributed much to the success of Spartan Distributors.I’m truly sorry for your loss.
Warren Schut
Grand Rapids MI
My deepest sympathy to Chuck’s family. I got to know Chuck while giving him his chemo – to me, he was a stoic quick witted great guy with laughing eyes. He will be missed.
Lori Moreau RN
Escanaba MI
Julie, Greg, Jeff, and Family:
Chuck and Shirley will always be remembered as two of our favorite people. We were lucky to share many fun times at dinners, cookouts, and social gatherings. The world has lost two beautiful people, Shirley, and now Chuck. We are so sorry for such a loss, and send our prayers and love for God’s love to hold and guide each of you.
Larry & Betty King Family
South Haven MI
We send our condolences – We just met your father when we purchased your Mom’s car from him. We didn’t realize he had health issues at the time. The car has been great for us.
Clayton & Barbara Cotey
Rapid River MI
To the family of Chuck Gold,
Please accept my heartfelt words of sorrow at the passing of a wonderful man, your relative Chuck Gold. I taught at Bay College from 1968 to 1995 and knew Chuck most of those years, both on the job and at social functions off campus. I recall that he always had a winning smile and he enjoyed a good laugh. I am very sorry to see that the world has lost such a fine man.
Al Howard
Escanaba MI
Greg, Jeff & Julie
So sorry to hear of your Dads passing. I thought of him often,& was just about to FB Jeff & ask him if he heard anything from him & how he was liking Florida, when I heard he had returned home. Your parents were the Best of the Best and I cherish my memories of them. They will be sadly missed.I hope you have peace in your heart knowing that your parents are now together again and are no longer suffering.
Cheryl McIntyre
Gladstone MI
Julie & Family: Our deepest sympathy on Chuck’s passing. He was a great supervisor and work associate but an even better friend. May your memories and faith sustain you at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bill & Eve Clarke
Fruita CO
The way he made his eyes dance is something we will always remember about Uncle Chuck. His adventure and courage in visiting us and traveling on his own in Ireland a half a year before his passing will always be remembered by us. We thank God for the gift of his life and pray His comfort for Uncle Chuck’s family.
Rev. Dr. Timothy and Joan Cumings
Galway IR
Dear Julie, Jeff, and Greg,
I’m so so so sorry to hear of your dad passing. I woke up Christmas morning thinking of your dad. I had not even gotten out of bed yet. I planned on calling him to see how he was doing and to see if he was up to having a visitor. I went to church that morning, and learned he had passed. Now reading his obituary, I’ve learned he was at Christian Park. I’m so sorry I hadn’t kept closer tabs on him. He and your mom were like parents to me. Your mom always making sure I did the things I should, and your dad assuring your mom she was directing me the right way. 🙂
I do work on Thursday, all day but I’m going to try to escape whenever I get a break, to come to the visitation. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you, as I know it’s very difficult when not just one, but both parents are gone.
I hope you have peace in your heart knowing that he and your mom both are no longer suffering.
Love and Light,
Robin Hewitt
Gladstone Mi
As Bay College employees, Jerry and I worked many years with Chuck. Actually Chuck is the reason that we are employed at Bay College – he hired Jerry in 1993. Our most fun memory is Chuck sitting on the seat of the World’s Largest Tricycle! Rest in Peace, Chuck. Our thoughts are with the family at this time.
CJ & Jerry Havill
Brampton MI
Anonymous
Chuck and my brother Duane and I have been friends for over 70 years. We were in kindergarten together and grew up doing many things with each other, graduating in the exceptional class of l954, which was filled with leaders and scholars. Chuck was an outstanding member of our class of 82, but more importantly he was one of the nicest friends we could ever have. I was so glad that he stopped in Sparta just before his trip to Europe and we had coffee with another of our dear friends Don Usher. He made it to our 55th class reunion but was very concerned to have left Shirley for that long. We have many stories to treasure including knowing his parents. He was very special.Incidentally I was the president of our class and have kept pretty close track of members. as near as we know Chuck is the 16th to pass so 20% of us are now gone to our reward. Our Blessings to the family.
Don Bradford
Sparta MI
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back, may the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
An Irish Blessing
The Bernson’s
Gladstone MI
Just received Brother Chuck’s passing notice, We in the Upper Peninsula’s Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, The Albert & James Lyon Camp #266, will miss Bro. Chuck very much. We will conduct a Veteran’s Service at a later date.
Bro. Gary C. White, PCCommander
Gwinn MI
Chuck hired me at Bay College in 1983, and he was the best boss/mentor I ever had. I learned so much from Chuck and truly attribute my success at Bay to him. I will always have a special place in my heart for him. Our sympathies to his family – we will miss him!
Glen and Mary Leisner
Escanaba MI
To the Gold Family,
You have my deepest sympathy. I was fortunate to serve with Chuck on the Brampton Township Board and enjoyed working with him very much. I cannot make the visitation or services today but will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers today and in the future.
Wayne Johnson
Gladstone MI
We are sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. I remember him from Bay College and my 92 year old mother remembers him from bowling. God Bless the family.
John & Irene Yirsa
Grand Ledge MI
To the family of Charles Gold,
It was an honor and pleasure to have known him. I enjoyed my visits with both he and Shirley., I continue to grieve his absence and find myself wishing for “just one more” visit.
Barb Wasie NP
Gladstone MI
Chuck hired me to teach at Bay College 24 years ago. He was a great person, and he will be missed by all. God Bless
Ann Markell
Iron Mountain MI
To the Chuck Gold family,
I remember Chuck as a valued employee who worked hard and contributed much to the success of Spartan Distributors.I’m truly sorry for your loss.
Warren Schut
Grand Rapids MI
My deepest sympathy to Chuck’s family. I got to know Chuck while giving him his chemo – to me, he was a stoic quick witted great guy with laughing eyes. He will be missed.
Lori Moreau RN
Escanaba MI
Julie, Greg, Jeff, and Family:
Chuck and Shirley will always be remembered as two of our favorite people. We were lucky to share many fun times at dinners, cookouts, and social gatherings. The world has lost two beautiful people, Shirley, and now Chuck. We are so sorry for such a loss, and send our prayers and love for God’s love to hold and guide each of you.
Larry & Betty King Family
South Haven MI
We send our condolences – We just met your father when we purchased your Mom’s car from him. We didn’t realize he had health issues at the time. The car has been great for us.
Clayton & Barbara Cotey
Rapid River MI
To the family of Chuck Gold,
Please accept my heartfelt words of sorrow at the passing of a wonderful man, your relative Chuck Gold. I taught at Bay College from 1968 to 1995 and knew Chuck most of those years, both on the job and at social functions off campus. I recall that he always had a winning smile and he enjoyed a good laugh. I am very sorry to see that the world has lost such a fine man.
Al Howard
Escanaba MI
Greg, Jeff & Julie
So sorry to hear of your Dads passing. I thought of him often,& was just about to FB Jeff & ask him if he heard anything from him & how he was liking Florida, when I heard he had returned home. Your parents were the Best of the Best and I cherish my memories of them. They will be sadly missed.I hope you have peace in your heart knowing that your parents are now together again and are no longer suffering.
Cheryl McIntyre
Gladstone MI
Julie & Family: Our deepest sympathy on Chuck’s passing. He was a great supervisor and work associate but an even better friend. May your memories and faith sustain you at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bill & Eve Clarke
Fruita CO
The way he made his eyes dance is something we will always remember about Uncle Chuck. His adventure and courage in visiting us and traveling on his own in Ireland a half a year before his passing will always be remembered by us. We thank God for the gift of his life and pray His comfort for Uncle Chuck’s family.
Rev. Dr. Timothy and Joan Cumings
Galway IR
Dear Julie, Jeff, and Greg,
I’m so so so sorry to hear of your dad passing. I woke up Christmas morning thinking of your dad. I had not even gotten out of bed yet. I planned on calling him to see how he was doing and to see if he was up to having a visitor. I went to church that morning, and learned he had passed. Now reading his obituary, I’ve learned he was at Christian Park. I’m so sorry I hadn’t kept closer tabs on him. He and your mom were like parents to me. Your mom always making sure I did the things I should, and your dad assuring your mom she was directing me the right way. 🙂
I do work on Thursday, all day but I’m going to try to escape whenever I get a break, to come to the visitation. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you, as I know it’s very difficult when not just one, but both parents are gone.
I hope you have peace in your heart knowing that he and your mom both are no longer suffering.
Love and Light,
Robin Hewitt
Gladstone Mi
As Bay College employees, Jerry and I worked many years with Chuck. Actually Chuck is the reason that we are employed at Bay College – he hired Jerry in 1993. Our most fun memory is Chuck sitting on the seat of the World’s Largest Tricycle! Rest in Peace, Chuck. Our thoughts are with the family at this time.
CJ & Jerry Havill
Brampton MI
Anonymous
Don was a good friend and neighbor when I lived on Sand Bay. Always had a good sense of humor. He’ll be missed.
Jeff Ware
Rapid River MI
To the family of Donny,
I want to tell you how much of a privilege it has been to know and be a friend your husband and father. He is one of the greatest individuals I and my family have ever had the privilege to meet and know. I thank god for that opportunity to be a part of his life. Most people can only hope to meet a person as loving and caring as Donny. A man that has served his county and has seen more than a person should really see or experience. A man that never complained about anything or anyone. A man that will help you in any way he can and never asks or take a thing for it no matter how hard you try to give it to him. My family and I will miss him greatly, a man we truly loved and cared for. We would go and visit with him every time we went up to camp. And he would look out for my place when we were back at home. He loved to stop in with his dogs and sit and have a cup of coffee or a beer and just visit. The kids and I would go and help him when he needed anything. We all loved everything about him he will be greatly missed. He loved to tell his stories about the past and show us pictures of his family, and we loved to listen to them. We know God will have a wonderful place for a man that has given so much and asked for nothing. We will never forget him and always have a special place in are hart for him. May god bless all of you and I hope we will meet sometime when we go up to camp.
We are very sorry we are unable to make it on Friday as I have to ref sectionals for wrestling and there no way I can get a replacement. If we can help you with anything please just let us know. My cell is 920-493-6820 or my home address is 7125 County J, Forestville WI 54213.
Kevin, Jan, Emily, Nate, Desirae, Savana, Guilette
Forestville WI
We are praying for your family to have peace, comfort and understanding during this time in your life. Donny is now rejoicing with our Lord and is pain free. Chelsey always enjoyed and will remember her visits with Grandpa Helman. Blessings to all of you.
Joseph, Sue & Chelsey
Olive Branch MS
Dear Helman family,
I am so sad to hear about Donny’s passing. I have so many great memories of going up to camp with all of you. I can still see Donny out in his big garden drinking a Blatz beer and also cooking for all of us. plus all the fun we had playing flashlight tag in the upstairs of camp. What wonderful memories 🙂 You are all in my thoughts and prayers!!
Lana Bruner Boudreau
Perronville MI
We are sorry to hear about your loss. Our family has a camp near Donny’s and we have certainly enjoyed visiting with him over the past 12 years. His self reliance and his many stories are things that will be with us and our children forever. I’m sure he will be dearly missed by all.
Kevin, Jan Guilette and children
Forestville WI
Chuck and Diane,
We are all very sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Your AFAA-QLQ Family
WPAFB OH
My thoughts are with you all in your sorrow. So many memories of all those years. May “Uncle Donnie” rest in peace.
Maryce Farrell
Rapid River MI
Dear Mrs. Helman, Tina and entire family of Don: We send our sincerest sympathies and prayers for all of you. May your memories bring you peace and comfort in these seemingly unbearable days. Don was a kind, gentle man who will always be loved, always be missed, but never forgotten!
Ron & Becki Hess
Gladstone MI
So sorry for your loss. He was a terrific neighbor – I still remember the smoked suckers he would bring over in the spring when I was a kid. God bless.
Bob Vietzke
Harvey MI
To the Helman Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. It has been decades since my days in the Buckeye and playing in your yard. I remember fondly those days and your dad. His fish smoker remains legendary in my mind and as I have sought to develop the perfect smoked salmon in Alaska, I often turn back to your father’s smoked fish. I hope all your memories are a comfort at this time.
Gregg (Goetz) Browngoetz
Homer AK
Dear Helman Family,
I grew up in the Buckeye and would often see your dad as he came home from work with Mr. LaPlant. He was such a nice and kind man. That’s what I remember well about him –a very gentle soul. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Anne (Buckland) Brower
Zimmerman MN
Anonymous
We met Barb at St. Thomas Church because we would always sit beside her in the side pews of church and had many good conversations with her. Recently I ran into her at Citgo Gas Station where she had left her keys in the car and we laughed about that! She complained to me about the changes in the missal at church and how she did not like them. She said the changes did not come from God. We will miss her. Kay and Mike Pryal
Kay Pryal
Gladstone MI
Marvin, I am so sorry for your loss. Nothing that is said will take away the pain. Just know I remember her and you as my favorite people who were so comfortable to be with. And the many memories of the high school days. Blessings and a peaceful journey.
Leora (Oss) Harsh
Flagstaff: AZ
Kathy (Kaski). Your friend from NMU here, Jean Ross. Hope you remember me. I saw your mother’s obit in the Iron River Reporter. I am so sorry to hear about your mother’s death. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. My mother lives in Caspian (Iron River area) and my in-laws live in Iron River. I live in Kearney, Nebraska now. Lived in Madison, WI most of my adult life. I remember when Kyle was born! Doesn’t seem that long ago. Time flies by. Hope you are doing well. Would love to hear from you. God Bless. mrsjeang15@gmail.com I’m on face book too.
Jean Ross
Kearney NE
Marvin and family, My deepest sympathy on the loss of Barbara. Even though we never got to know each other, I remember your wedding day out on the farm. Take care. your cousin, Don Autio
Donald Autio
Marshall MI
Dear Marv & Family:
We were shocked and saddened to hear about Barb. She seemed her normal self last summer when we visited. Our hearts go out to all of you at this difficult time, and we feel Barb gave you many, many happy memories. We remember Barb from Michigan State days, and Larry recalls the summer Barb moved to Crystal Falls. There are too many memories of good times spent together to list here.
With Hearfelt Sympathy, Larry & Sophia Morton
Larry & Sophia Morton
Cuyahoga Falls OH
Marv and family i am sorry to hear of your loss. We will remember Barb always. She was a great person and our camp and backyard picnics wont be the same.Stay strong and we will keep you in our prayers.
Sue,Ashley and Heather Berg
Gladstone MI
Pat and Terri, I am so very sorry to read of your Mom’s passing. I know how hard it is to lose our parents, they seem to take a little piece of us with them when they go. I am sure she will be missed very much. Cherish all of those memories, they will bring you many smiles. I will be thinking of you. Take care Tricia
Tricia Guidebeck
Marquette MI
Dr. Hammar,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. May the memories you have bring you peace.
Jake, Samantha, and Abby Kuehl
Samantha Kuehl
Rapid River MI
I hadn’t seen Barb for a while but do remember how she expressed life. My prayers and love are with the Kaski family and wish them strength during this tough time. Barb will be missed by everyone. May she rest in peace.
Linda Collins
Green Bay WI
Laurie & family,
I was so sorry to read of your mother’s passing.I didn’t know her but from reading her obituary she sounded like a very special woman who knew how to live life to the fullest. She will live on in your many happy memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Karen
Karen Sargent
Ensign MI
So sorry to see the passing of Barb. Our condolences and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.
Tom & Shirley DeRidder
I remember your family from my youth. My deepest sympathies to all.
Marty Ball
Jackson WI
Dear Marv & family. So sorry to hear of Barb’s passing. We are thinking of you and your family during this sad time. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Gene & Marge Schiavo
Lakeland FL
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Barb. We didn’t know her well, but always enjoyed her company (and her hats!) Our thoughts and prayers are with Kathy, Kyle and the rest of the family.
Debra Szwejda and Gary Szwejda
Eaton Rapids MI
When I was a young boy and was playing over at the Kaski house with my childhood friend Pat, I stepped on a wire and really hurt my foot. Mrs. Kaski patched me up and got the bleeding stopped, I’ll never forget that. I will include the Kaski family in my prayers. God Speed…
Lee R. Tompkins
Columbus OH
I had the pleasure of working with Barb at Bay Vet Clinic. What a wonderful Lady!!! There was never a dull moment, and she would always make me laugh. I will miss Barb! Thoughts and prayers to the family
Jennifer Spriks
Escanaba MI
My Dad went to Vet school with Marv, and when we moved to Escanaba in 1972 the Kaskis were the only people we knew at first, and I remember all the fun we had at their house that summer. Barb was a hoot (!) and I have many fond memories of her. Love and prayers to all of her family.
Tom Bergman
Wenatchee WA
To Marvin and family,
Extending my deep and heartfelt sympathy to you and your family on the loss of your wife and mother and grandmother.
Carol Rudden
Escanaba MI
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kaski family at this time. May God give you peace, comfort, and strength. It was a privilege knowing Barb, she always brought a smile to my face. I have nothing but good memories of her. She truly loved life and was always kind to everyone around her. She will be greatly missed.
Pam Wheeler
Holt MI
Anonymous
Angie, so sorry to hear about Vern’s death. Dave & I want to express our deepest sympathy. I know we are not on your comuicating list but, life is too short to worry about things that can not be changed.We will keep you all in our prayers. Love, Dave & Rosie
Dave & Rosie Oursler
Tampa, FL
Dear Hixon Family,
I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories.
Rick Williams
Gladstone, MI
I just read in the Sault Evening News of Mr. Hixon’s passing. I attended Brimley Schools with Elvin; my advancing age doesn’t let me recall the exact years. My sister Dawn knew Terri as well. I think my Mom used to go to the Hixon’s house to meet with Mrs. Hixon and other ladies (Mrs. Newland was one ??) for a kind of “craft night”. I see that Elvin has two children – I have two daughters ages 9 and 7. Oddly, my wife now attends a “craft group” with a number of other women – or so they say. I suspect its some kind of cult actually – you never can tell what goes on in Brimley. I’m not sure Elvin remembers me, but I am sorry for your loss. My Dad passed away three years ago in August, and even though I’m 52 years old, I still miss him very much. My girls & I prayed for you and your family tonight at bedtime. I can remember going to a birthday party I think (with Bruce Mills & Steve Wilson, maybe Bob McCormick??) at your house across from the School. I hope things have gone well for you, and hope that you can take comfort in knowing that your Dad is safe in heaven. Its possible he and my Dad are planning some kind of home improvement up there if that is possible, since it looks like that is what they both enjoyed doing. God bless.
Jim Halvorsen
Brimley , MI
Uncle Vern taught me the difference between fog and hase. Vern & Daryl and Kenn andI were going fishing on Washington Island, and it was foggy. Vern said to get our stuff on the boat. I asked if it was too foggy.”It’s haze if you want to go, fog if you don’t. I think it was haze leaving Gladstone and fog when leaving Washington Island.
Jim Depew
Newberry, MI
We’re saddened to hear of Vern’s passing. Vern was such a warm and special man. We enjoyed hearing all about his adventures and appeciated his knowledge. He lived a full and impressive life. We’ve been missing him and Angie since we’ve moved away from the area but Mom kept us up-to-date on their wherabout and happenings. He and the family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Sue and Carl Coesfeld
Ironwood, MI
Sorry to hear about Vern. I will always remenber the good times we had, Vern Elvin and me. You took me in when I had no where else to go. I will never forget that.
P.S. Farewell Vernyburger
Rockey
Gladstone, MI
My Uncle Vern represents all of the wonderful qualities of the Hixon family — full of fun, sensitive to others, family-focused, hard working, and just a bit of a rebel! My mother was one of his older sisters — she was number four of the nine and Vern was the youngest. As a small child I remember his wonderful way of including everyone in the fun — no matter what their age. I was number 29 of 38 grandchildren — kind of an invisible place on the list, but he made me feel important.
He was always the best story teller — jokes, tales from days working on the farm with Grandpa, and stories about when he and Uncle Ken were young were the best. I’d give just about anything to here him tell the one about the deer hunter and the bunny rabbit just one more time!
I can’t think of Vern without thinking of how that man loved his family. I will always remember the way he looked at Angie and the kids — such pride, such love. Vern and Angie were always there for me when I was growing up — two of the most wonderful people I have ever known — and what a lovely family! I’m so thankful I have so many wonderful memories of him.
Love and hugs to those he named the boat after!
VATEDA
Gwen Peterson
San Ramon, CA
All our love to Aunt Ange, Terri, Elvin, Daryll, and Angela. I can remember a time when my grandpa Willy and grandma Bert were playing Euchre one day and somebody got “set” on a “loner”. Not hesitating, they had to dial up Uncle Vern to rat them out. Priceless. I remember the building bee at the farm from the fire. I was little then, but remember how cool it was to eat fresh peas from the pod, have the best bacon and eggs ever, and finding out what an electric fence was. Uncle Vern was always so good to us kids, even if things were not going well for him. What a guy. Some of the best food I have ever eaten has come from Aunt Ange’s kitchen. Thankfully I have another Angel to watch over my family. Lots of hugs and love to all.
Tom Ghiardi & Family
Kennesaw, GA
It’s been many years since I’ve seen Uncle Vern, but I still get a warm feeling seeing his picture. I still remember days at my Grandpa Will & Grandma Bert’s when everyone was having a good time, playing cards, laughing & enjoying everyone’s company. We would try to trick Uncle Vern by pulling on his ear to see if his teeth really came out! It sounds like you all stayed real close & I’m happy you were able to enjoy the fun things in life together. Our sincere sympathy and God Bless you all.
Kathy Matson, daughter of Bev (Depew) Ghiardi
Munising, MI
Angie,
I’m so sorry to hear about Vern and for not having got in touch with you for so long. I know Vern is at peace now and with God.
Let the kid’s know how sorry we are and we have room in the spring if you need places to stay.
Please call me as soon as you can, I got a new phone last spring and do not have your phone number.
Ernie & Sue Gehrke
Sault Ste Marie, MI
Dear Angie and Family, We are so sorry to read of Vern’s passing. Although we didn’t spend alot of time with you, we always think of you with fondness. I know you have many good memories of Vern and his wonderful sense of humor. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless you.
Cliff and Diane Bosley
DeTour Village, MI
I am so sorry, Daryl, on the death of your father. It is so hard at this time, but me and my family send our deepest sympathies.
Mary LeMay (formerly Valencic) and Mike Weir, Nicole and Jeremy
Gladstone, MI
Angie and Family,
How sad to hear of Vern’s passing! I remember him as a very fun loving, crazy guy who had a good time where ever he went.
I remeber goin gout to Washington Island in the boat and fishing for Lake Trout. I also remember beeing nine months pregnant and goint out to the Light House at the Showls. I remember the guys on the Showls picking me up by the arms and pulling me to the deck of the light house. What fun we had!
Corky, my hubby, and I live in Escanaba at Woodland Estates and would love to see you sometime. We are now in Arizona at our Winter home and will be back in the Escanaba area in april.
Love and hugs to all,
Sandy ( Sam) Sundquist
906-789-1936
Coolidge, AZ
Mrs Hixon, I was so sorry to hear about Vern today. I am sending you a great big hug. That was one of the biggest down falls when I left Rite Aid was people like you and Vern. He is in a much happier place. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family at this difficult time.
Shannon & Donald Ayers
Samuel,Elizabeth & Rachel
Sault Sainte Marie, MI
If anyone has ever gone boating with my Grandpa Vern, more than likely, they have a pretty good story to tell. One of my first boating experiences was on his tugboat on Lake Hessel. My family had planned this big excursion in advance. We were going to Lake Hessel to fish the entire weekend during the peak of the herring run. To this day, fishing is my favorite past-time, so you can imagine how excited I was as a six year old knowing that I had an entire weekend of fishing in store for me.
Between my Dad and Grandpa, they made it sound like there were so many fish, they would jump out of the water into our boat. I couldn’t sleep the last couple of days before our trip because of my excitement.
We got there on a Thursday afternoon and by mid-day Saturday the only thing we had caught was a seagull that happened to be flying by as my Dad cast his hook into the water. That was my first lesson that A.) The fish don’t always cooperate B.) Fisherman are bullshitters. I was bored and pissed off that we hadn’t caught anything but my Grandma kept my mouth full of pop and junkfood to keep my mouth shut. After guzzling my 5th pop of the day, I had to go make room for #6. I was in mid stream with my pants pulled down around my ankles when Grandpa yelled, “Fish on!” I immediateley ran up from the head and he handed me a fishing pole. The fish fought for all of thirty seconds and I had landed the first fish of the trip.
That one fish made my trip and gave me one of many memories of my grandpa and I together. He helped instill in me my love of boating/fishing and the fact that things don’t always go your way, but its how you bounce back that counts.
Grandpa, thank you for everything you’ve given/taught me and all the time we spent together. I love you and miss you.
Vern Hixon
Chicago, IL