Vernon R. Gortner

Gortner, Vernon R. 85 Jan. 14, 1926 April 05, 2011 Vern, born in New York, lived most of his life in Portland. He was the son of noted evangelist Vernon Gorst Gortner and Alice Hagstrom Gortner. Vern was predeceased by his wife of 47 years, Phyllis. He was Dad to five daughters and one son, and brother to six siblings. Vern was a charter member of the Gateway Elks Lodge, where he accumulated many honors for his long years of service and expert tax advice. Due to his many activities on the local, state and national levels, Vern was inducted into the Oregon Elks Association Hall of Fame in 2009, one of only 58 Oregon members ever to achieve this honor. He was a certified tax preparer for 63 years. Vern enjoyed a memorable trip to the Holy Land in 2010. His greatest joys were spending time with his family (especially the grandkids) and friends, and doing taxes. He will be missed by many. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, April 16, 2011, at the Gateway Elks Lodge, Portland. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to the Gateway Elks Youth Scholarship or Eye Care programs.