Vernon was confirmed in 1935 in the Peace United Church of Christ and has served on the church board several times as well as on the Peace Haven Board. He was a member of the Walnut Fire Department, served on the Ambulance crew for many years and was a member of the Walnut American Legion Post #422. He served as a Layton Township Trustee and was a member of the Atlantic Elks Lodge.
Vernon retired from farming in 1968 and then worked as a Crop Hail adjuster for 20 years. He spent many hours in both the Walnut Creek Historical Museum and Country School House. He helped make them what they are today and gave many lectures to tour groups in both buildings telling about their history and contents.
In 1996, he was honored as the Grand Marshall of the Quasqi-Centenial Parade and in 1998 he and Ann were given the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Vernon and Ann loved traveling and have visited all 50 states, Switzerland and Austria as well as enjoying several fishing trips to Canada.
Vernon passed away on Sunday March 14, 2004 at Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn, Iowa where he had been residing since December of 2003. He had attained the age of eighty three years, seven months and twenty two days.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers; Ora and Belden and two sisters; Etta Belle Clayton and Annie Dory. He is survived by his wife Anna of Elk Horn, Iowa, numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Funeral services were held at Peace United Church of Christ on March 18, 2004 with Pastor David O’Rourke and Pastor Orris Drake officiating. Music was provided by accompanist, Keralyn Whyte and soloist, Jeff Krueger. Casket bearers were John Clayton, Philip Clayton, Ray McLaughlin, Milton Mueller, George Mertz and Bob Anderson.
Interment was in the Layton Township Cemetery, Walnut, Iowa.