Vern Blackwell

Vern Blackwell
Vern Blackwell, 88, of Unionville, MO passed away suddenly at the Putnam County Memorial Hospital on October 28, 2011.
Vern Blackwell was born in Ottumwa, IA on July 28, 1923, the son of Clarence and Mary (Dunlavy) Blackwell. Vern graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1941 and began working for John Morrell Company before joining the United States Army serving in World War II from 1944-47. On May 29, 1959 Vern married Doris Erenstene Francis. Vern worked as a salesman for Oscar Mayerin the meat industry before his retirement. Vern had a servant’s heart for disadvantaged and disabled children so he joined Shriners in 1975, was a Masons member for 55 years, a past member of the American Legion, veteran of foreign war, NRA member since 1998, and a member of the United Methodist Church. Vern enjoyed fishing, golfing, hunting, playing cards, and gardening because he could be outside. He liked to show off his wood working skills to his family and was always in the mood for a visit.
Vern is survived by his wife Doris of the home and a son, Brent Blackwell of Bonita Springs, FL. Others who survive Vern are a cousin, Bob Blackwell of Ottumwa, IA; sister-in-laws, Alma Barker and husband Larry and Elaine Barker all of Nevada, IA. Brother-in-laws, Gary Rupe and wife Waneta of Salorsville, IA and Doyle Rupe of Ottumwa, IA also survive along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to Vern’s parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Lovena Leonard and husband Jim; brother-in-law, Kenny Barker; and cousin-in-law, Kathy Blackwell.
Memorials for Vern are suggested to the Shriners Hospital for disabled children and may be entrusted to the Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.