Vanverd Dick Jr.

Vanverd Dick Jr. "Waka jaMa a ni age 79, of Window Rock, Arizona passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026 in Arizona.

Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00 pm on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Cex Haci Community Building in Nekoosa, followed by Native American Church Services Friday evening. Commitment services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 14 at Cex Haci. Wilfrid Cleveland will officiate. Burial will be at Dexterville Cemetery with military honors provided by Joseph White American Legion Post 442.

Vanverd was born October 1, 1946 in Wisconsin Rapids to Vanverd Sr. and Emaline (Grizzlybear) Dick. He was drafted and served his country honorably with the United States Navy in the Vietnam War from 1966 – 1971.

Vanverd worked as an auto body mechanic in Chicago, IL and in security at Rainbow Casino in Nekoosa. He retired as a draftmen from General Dynamics in Fort Defiance, AZ.

Vanverd was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a devout lifelong member of the Native American Church and had a strong faith in Creator God. He enjoyed doing Native arts and crafts. He loved to travel with his beloved wife, June Nakai-Dick, who passed away just 8 days prior to Vanverd after 55 years of marriage.

Vanverd is survived by four children, five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many extended family and relatives. In addition to his wife, June, he is preceded in death by his parents Vanverd and Emaline Dick Sr. and siblings: Crandall, Lorna, Nathan, Lenora, Elaine, Norbert and Keith.

Herman-Taylor Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.