He passed from this life on Tuesday, February 28 in Amber, Oklahoma, at the age of 99 years, five months and 14 days. Vernon was a carpenter by trade and worked for Longbel Lumber, Carey Lumber, and E.V. Cox Construction in Oklahoma City until his retirement.

He loved family get-togethers and enjoyed making new friends and visiting with old ones. He loved to laugh and what a laugh he had. He enjoyed his life and was active as he could be. He loved watching his daughter Barbara, his granddaughter Dana, and his great-granddaughter Aubree play softball.

He lived in Purcell for 34 years and if the ballfield lights were on, he would go not knowing anyone there.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; three brothers, John, William and Reuben; four sisters, Katherine, Lillian, Esther and Lydia (Pat).

He is survived by: his son, Willard Dean (Barbara Ann) of Blanchard; his daughter, Barbara Ruth (Reford) Steelman of Amber; grandson Jason Dean (Amelia) of New Mexico; granddaughters, Angel Dawn (Rusty) Warren of Blanchard, Dana DeAun (Bryce) of Purcell; three great-grandchildren, Aubree Dee Ferguson of Newcastle, Olivia Blue and Maveric Warren of Blanchard; and many nephews, nieces and loved ones.

He will be missed by all who loved and knew him.

Services are pending.