Vernon Edward "Vern" Doerr

Vernon Edward "Vern" Doerr, age 91, of Remus, Michigan, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, at his home-the very place where his beloved wife, Connie, passed away 11 years before. Surrounded by love and comfort, Vern spent his final days in the home he cherished, made possible through the devoted care of his son, BJ, who ensured he could remain there comfortably until the end.

Vern was born on July 21, 1934, in Remus, Michigan, the son of Albert and Edna (Karcher) Doerr. He was the 6th of 12 children. A lifelong resident of the community he loved so much, Vern carried deep pride in his hometown and served the public through local government as Wheatland Township Trustee for many years. He carried a quiet joy with him wherever he went and always seemed genuinely content and happy with where he was and what he was doing. His life was one lived fully.

On September 7, 1957, Vern married the love of his life, Connie Ann Smith. Together, they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage, raising their family and building a life centered on devotion to one another, their children, and their faith. Connie preceded Vern in death, along with their cherished son, Kevin Doerr.

Vern proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, a service he carried with immense pride throughout his life. One of his most meaningful experiences was traveling on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C., alongside his son, BJ-a memory he treasured deeply.

Hard work was simply a way of life for Vern, and he built his life through grit, perseverance, and integrity. In his early years, he operated a diaper business, providing for his family through honest work and long days. Though known as a tireless worker, Vern possessed a heart of unmatched gentleness. He was the most kind, giving, and thoughtful soul-always quietly generous, and deeply compassionate. Vern lived his entire life rooted in faith, family, service, and gratitude.

He was a devoted and active member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Remus, where his faith was lived out through presence, humility, and service. He volunteered his time and talents to help the church and school in countless ways over the years. From hosting cookouts for the school children in the Spring, to providing food for funeral luncheons, he was a staple in his church family. He loved hunting (or simply napping in the blind), never missed a dinner with friends, and was never late when a gathering involved good food and good company. He had a fondness for sweets and an even greater love for the people around him. Vern was deeply loved by the community he lived in his entire life, and his presence will be dearly missed.

He was the last surviving member of his family of twelve children and was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son; and siblings, Vincent, Marvin, Keith, Avis, Andy, Teresa, Rita, Paul, Ruth, John "Jakie," Daniel.

Vern is survived by his children, Larry (Mary Jo) Doerr, Terry (Julie) Doerr, and Brian "BJ" Doerr; his grandchildren, David (Yolanda) Doerr, Heather (Wayne) Carrigan, Lowell (Amber) Knapp, Andrew (Alexa) Doerr, and Celia (Austin) Hollenbeck; great-grandchildren, Abigail, Ethan, Hudson, Henry, Violet, Luca, Chloe and Logan along with many extended family members, dear friends, and a grateful community who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at St. Michael Catholic Church in Remus with Father Michael Alber as Celebrant. Military honors will be rendered at the church in appreciation of Vern's service to his country.

Visitation will be held Friday evening from 4:00–7:00 PM at Janowicz Family Funeral Home in Remus and again Saturday morning one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will follow in St. Michael Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the St. Michael School Foundation or Heartland Hospice - Fremont in Vern's memory.

Vern Doerr lived a life full of gratitude, faith, and quiet joy. He touched countless lives with his gentle nature, infectious glow, and sincere kindness. His legacy is one of humility, love, and a life well-lived-and he will be remembered always as a good man who left the world better simply by being in it.