Obituary
Guest Book
DONALD W. VERNICK age 84, beloved husband of Lyn (nee Johnston) for 50 years; loving father of Glen (Amy) Vernick, Missy (Terry) Rein, Kimberly (Donald) Krance, Brian (Tricia) Vernick, and Julie (Kevin) Hunt; devoted grandfather of Joel (Rachael), Jessie (Matt), Jacob, Terry Lee (Laura), Timothy, Joshua (Kasey), Zachary, Kristina, Jessica, Dakota, and Hope and great-grandfather of 8. He was preceded in death by his cherished parents Wilbert and Norine (nee Reinker); sisters Joan (Jim) Wolf and Ruth Vernick; and grandson Joshua Fanti.
Donald was born on August 6, 1940, in Cleveland, Ohio. A skilled carpenter by trade, Don devoted a lifetime to building and worked for many years at Geauga Hospital. Don's most meaningful build was the house he and Lyn made a home. Don loved being outdoors, whether he was working on a project, fishing, camping, farming or snowmobiling. He also enjoyed spending hours tinkering in the garage, listening to country music and watching western movies. Don proudly served in the United States Coast Guard and loved spending time with his fellow veterans at the Geauga County Veteran Food Pantry. Don was called to eternal rest on January 12, 2025, leaving a legacy of love and devotion to his wife, family, friends, and those who had the privilege to know him.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Don to Geauga County Veteran Food Pantry, 13211 Aquilla Rd. Suite B, Chardon, OH 44024 or by clicking HERE.
Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Don at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY OF CHARDON (formerly Ritondaro) 126 SOUTH ST. (Rt. 44, south of Rt. 6/Chardon Square) Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 4-7 PM
Please meet for a Funeral Service in Celebration of Don's life Friday, January 17, 2025, at Freedom Alliance Church, 9892 Old State Road, Chardon, OH 44024 at 10 AM.
Burial following with Military Honors at Hambden Township Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more