Vernon Beehler

Funeral services for Vernon Beehler were held on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 10:30 a.m at the United Methodist Church in Gregory, SD, with Pastor Thaniel Certa-Werner officating.

The eulogy was given by Lucas Mikkelsen. Music was provided by Alisa Thieman and Jeannette Sinkular, duet, and Geoff Smith, soloist, accompanied by Bette Fogel, pianist. Gerald and Melanie Witte, and Melissa Underwood were in charge of registration.

Kotrba-Smith Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Vernon Alfred Beehler was born on December 20, 1943, in Gregory, SD, to Alfred and Marie (Henderson) Beehler. He was the youngest of four children. He attended grade school at a country school north of the family farm which was homesteaded in 1904.

Vernon graduated from Gregory High School in the class of 1961. After graduation, he attended college in Springfield, SD. He then ventured out west to California with a friend, where he was employed for a time. After ward, he returned home to Gregory and small-time life that better suited him. Upon returning home, he began employment with Harrison Plumbing & Heating.

Vernon and Barb purchased the business in October, 1974. They owned and operated the business for almost 50 years. During high school, he met his future wife Barbara (Fortuna). They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on March 8. Vernon and Barbara had four children: Lisa, Jade, Jason, and Jerred.

Vernon was an avid outdoorsman that enjoyed hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. He was also a big fan of all sporting events, which included coaching his sons’ baseball teams. He enjoyed Gorilla football and was seated in the broadcast booth for over 30 years with his friend Jack Clark. Besides Gorilla Football, he attended many USD Coyote football games watching his favorite players Chris, Lucas, and Tim. Vernon also enjoyed cards with family and friends. He was a member of many leagues including golf, pool, and darts. He was also inducted into the Gregory Fire Department Hall of Fame in 2016 with 26 years of volunteer service. Vernon was well known in his community for his ability to repair most anything. In addition, he was well known for his quick one liners and Vernie-isms.

Vernon passed away at his home on April 3, 2024, at the age of 80, after a long battle with cancer.

Vernon is survived by his wife Barb; children Alisa (Steve) Thieman, Gregory, SD, Jade (Julie) Beehler, Spencer, IA, Jason Beehler, Winner, SD, and Jerred (Jodi) Beehler, Inwood, IA; ten grandkids: Chris (Abbey) Mikkelsen, Lucas (Jessica) Mikkelsen, Eric (Lauren) Beehler, Bayli (Fiance Jeff) Beehler, Emily Beehler, Mali Beehler, Lillie Beehler, Masen Beehler, Easton Beehler, Mara Beehler; four great-grandkids; several nieces; one nephew; and close relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Gerald and Roger; and sister Anne.