Vernon Langley Obituary

VERNON T. LANGLEY, JR. Vern Langley, age 84 of St. Germain, Wisconsin, passed away on August 3, 2013, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on July 4, 1929, in Quincy Massachusetts, the son of Vernon and Gertrude Langley. He was preceded in death by his sister, Joan Ireland, and his two beloved dogs, Tahoe and Hooch. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Arlene, daughters, Karla Cleveland (David), Karen Dirienzo, Kathy Kimbro, Holly Langley, Jennifer Logston (John Kahovec), Rebekkah Post (Chris) and sons, James Langley and John Langley(Rhonda); 14 grandchildren and 1 great grandson. If you ask his children they would say, "He was the greatest man who ever lived." Vern was in the Naval Reserve while in high school. After high school, he began his college career which was put on hold when he was drafted into the Army during the Korean Conflict. After being discharged from the Army, he returned to college and completed his degree in Elementary Education. He taught sixth grade before becoming a principal in Downers Grove. Thirty years later, he retired from education and changed careers, becoming an over-the-road trucker for North American Van Lines. He and his faithful dog, Tahoe, enjoyed this career together logging over one million miles, crossing the United States many times until he retired again at age 70. In retirement, he and his wife moved to the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where he enjoyed his home on the lake, which provided many hours of fun for the visits of his family. People would say of Vern, "He is the busiest retired person I 've ever met." Vern became a model train enthusiast, and built a large layout which he and his wife spent many hours constructing. He loved to tell stories about the histories of his steam engines. A memorial service will be held at St. Luke Presbyterian Church, 3910 Highland Ave, Downers Grove, on Saturday, August 24, 2013, at 2:00pm.