Vernen Parker Gunnell

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Vernen Parker Gunnell passed away, peacefully and quietly, on July 12, 2024. Vern had battled through onset of dementia for the past year or so, but always found solace in being with those friends and family members who he dearly loved. Simply said, Vern was a devout and trusted disciple of Jesus Christ. 

Vern was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and even a great grandfather as of this past week. He never passed up an opportunity to serve others and even if there wasn’t a chance to do so, he would create one. Vern’s legacy is founded upon serving our Savior and all those for whom he was able to cross paths with in this lifetime.

Vern was born on Christmas Eve in 1940 in Santa Monica, CA to Leland and Edith Gunnell. His character, as a child, was forged by learning the value of work and discipline as he supported his parents and family in their farming and ranching endeavors. He attended South Cache High School in Hyrum and participated in multiple sports, including basketball and football. It was also in Hyrum that he met his lifelong sweetheart, Kathleen Crookston, who only he could refer to as “Katie”. Their marriage was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple on September 4, 1964, and their union only strengthened with time.

Following receipt of his bachelor’s degree and completion of the Air Force ROTC program at Utah State University, Vern went on to have a distinguished career in the US Air Force as a Personnel Officer, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He and his family spent time at more than a dozen stations all over the world. After his military career, Vern spent time as a dedicated counselor and teacher in Cache Valley. He also served as a senior administrator with Bridgerland Technology before retiring in 2009.

Vern had an unwavering commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He served a full-time mission to the Southern States, and then later served in numerous ward and stake leadership capacities. However, there was no opportunity which paralleled the chance to serve in the Logan Temple as an ordinance worker first, and then a Sealer. The joy in uniting families forever was unmatched by any other service.

Vern served with the American Legion (Hyrum UT Post) for a number of years in recognizing, honoring, and caring for those men and women who gave their lives for our country.

Vern cherished the chance to connect with new friends and old friends. From Vern’s perspective, there were no strangers in this world – just friends that he hadn’t seen for a long time. He sought opportunities to take people out to visit his “shed” and find a way to help them. The word on the lane in Mt. Sterling was that if Vern didn’t have it in his shed, you didn’t need it.

Finally, for Vern, family wasn’t just first. Family was simply everything. With intention and inspiration, he built a life which was driven by how to make those within his family better and more mindful of how blessed each member is. Vern was always so kind, expressed appreciation for both the big and little things, and reminded us that choosing the right is what ultimately matters.

We are forever grateful for your example – one of integrity, diligence and a love of God which “endureth forever”. Thanks for the Cheerios and powdered milk – and for keeping the light on – for all of us. We will miss you. We love you.

Vern is survived by his dear wife, Kathleen Crookston Gunnell; his five children, Gary Vernen Gunnell [Staci], Kurt L Gunnell [Jana], Karla Kathleen Gunnell, Lori Ann Bartels [Darren], and Kevin David Gunnell [Andrea]; 16 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents Leland and Edith Gunnell, and his brother, Wayne Gunnell. He is also survived by his siblings: Judy Lynne (Kent) Jenson, L. Paul Gunnell, Lyle (Julie) Gunnell, Gaylen Gunnell, and Nolan (Pam) Gunnell.

The family wishes to extend sincere appreciation to the care team at Spring Gardens in Draper, UT for their tireless service and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Missionary or Humanitarian funds of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or your favorite charity. 

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 17th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Allen-Hall Mortuary, 34 East Center St., Logan, UT. A funeral service for Vern will be held on Thursday, July 18th, at 11:00 AM at the Wellsville Stake Center (30 South Center St). A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at the church. The internment will be at the Wellsville City Cemetery.

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Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.