Vernon (Vern) Peters

July 14, 2017

Vernon (Vern) Peters was born to Francis and Anna Mininger Peters, on July 17, 1929, at home in the rural area near Ithaca, Michigan. He was the first of seven children in the family. He departed this life on July 12, 2017, in Atmore Nursing Center, Atmore, AL, reaching the age of nearly eighty- eight years. His death was the result of complications related to old age.

He received his formal education in the rural Smith Allen School in Gratiot County, Michigan.

At an early age, being energetic, he left   home   and worked   for area farmers. His interest   was to be independent   and self- employed, later   buying   a   gas station in Alma, Ml.

On July 20, 1949, he married our mother, Dolores Ruth Detwiler.

In December of 1953, he with our mother and children moved to Walnut Hill, FL. It was here they began to attend the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite. During the winter revival they felt the call of God and surrendered their lives to the Lord and were baptized on January 22, 1954, by Min. Harry Wenger. The faith and church were precious to him and he embraced them to the end. He was very studious in the Bible and church doctrines and took a very active part in Sunday School. Many called him for interpretation of scriptures.

Vern tried different occupations to support his family such as poultry and farming. Finally, he started a machine shop. This turned out to be a very successful business. He was in this business over thirty years and it also provided work and education for his sons. This business was known as Vernz Fabrication and Welding.

Upon retirement, Dad and Mom started the Apple House and Bakery. He built his own cider  press and grinding mill. Many people from far and near enjoyed his fresh apple cider and their home baked goods. On April 7, 2010, his wife, Dolores, passed away, leaving him very lonely. He lived in his own house until the last months when his physical condition required more nursing skill. He appreciated the care given him and often thanked the nurses.

He loved his family and friends, often interceding for their salvation. He also reached out to those carrying a burden.

Those left to cherish fond memories are three sons and one daughter: Larry Bill and wife Wanda of Wrens, GA; Deborah and husband Jon Litwiller of Middleton, Ml; Randy and wife Cyndi Peters of Nyssa, OR; Erich Peters of Walnut Hill, FL. Our sister Lorinda Lumbert joined our family in 1996. There are two brothers and four sisters: Wilbert and Imo Peters of Walnut Hill, FL; Beatrice Riggs of Moundridge, KS; Verle and Vesta Peters of Walnut Hill, FL; Louise and Abe Ensz of Hillsboro, KS; Lois and Willie Eicher of Walnut Hill, FL; Kathleen and John Wenger of Walnut Hill, FL. Additionally, there are 16 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; two brothers and four sisters, a host of friends and acquaintances. Preceding him in death are his wife Dolores and one daughter in law.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, July 16, 2017, at the Walnut Hill Mennonite Church with Rev. Doug Salsbury, Rev. Galen Harms and Rev. Maynard Peters officiating. Burial will follow in Walnut Hill Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held Saturday, July 15, 2017 from 6-8 p.m. from the Walnut Hill Mennonite Church.

Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangments.

Comments

2 Responses to “Vernon (Vern) Peters”

  1. Mike Stuart on July 15th, 2017 4:12 pm

    I worked for Vern back in the 70s and 80s and he always treated me fairly and thats saying something in this day and time. He was a good person.Condolences to the Peters family

  2. Catherine Bowers on July 15th, 2017 4:34 am

    I knew Mr. Peters while I was manager of the Family Dollar store in Walnut Hill. He was a very special person to me and my staff. He was always so kind and we carried on many a good and Godly conversation. I am thankful for knowing this man. He is now with his wife where he always has longer to be. His hard work is done…into Heavens grace he is sent. Thank you Mr. Peter’s for always taking time for me. Godspeed and condolences to his family.