Vernon Dean Kolle

Vernon Dean Kolle, 65, passed away Saturday, January 19, 2008, at the Washington County Hospital. A funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 22, 2008, at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Washington. The Rev. Judy Hill officiated. Sheila Ouellette played the organ while the congregation sang “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”, “I Know That My Redeemer Lives”, and “How Great Thou Art”. Pallbearers were Jim Kolle, Gary Dusin, Delmar Koeneke, Royce Kolle, Robb Kohlmeyer, and John Stigge, Jr. Honorary pallbearers were Lyman Lyle, Noel True, Dale Peterson, Don Kramer, Melvin Watters, Norman Tinkler, Stanford Stamm, Elmer Kolle, and Larry Lohrengel. Burial was in the Washington City Cemetery. Vernon was born on August 20, 1942, at Steele City, Nebraska, the son of Raymond and Selma (Niemann) Kolle. On August 30, 1942, he was baptized into the Christian faith at Zion Lutheran Church, Linn. His sponsors were John Kolle and Fred Niemann. On March 25, 1956, Pastor W.G. Biel confirmed him into the Christian faith at Zion Lutheran Church. Vernon served in the Army National Guard from September 1959 until September 1962. He received an honorable discharge. He was united in marriage to Marilyn K. Johnson, on December 3, 1961, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Washington by Pastor James Seiffert. Vernon farmed and raised cattle near rural Washington along with selling Archer Oil and SeedTec Seeds until becoming ill in 1999. He enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren, and friends, along with fishing, putting jigsaw puzzles together, and reading. Vernon will be deeply missed by family and friends who loved him. His grandparents precede him in death. Vernon is survived by his wife, Marilyn Kolle, of the home; two sons, Brad Kolle, and wife Barbara, Plano, Texas, and Brian Kolle, Washington; one daughter, Michelle Sketchley, and husband Don, Hutchinson, Kansas; and by four grandchildren, Donnie, Caitlyn, Amanda, and Taylor; parents, Raymond and Selma Kolle, Linn; and one brother, Dennis Kolle, and his wife Ella of Greenfield, Ohio; and a host of friends. Memorials have been designated to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Vernon Dean Kolle, please visit our flower store.