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BORN
1934
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Jerry Vernail Obituary
There will be no visitation or services. Entrusted with the arrangements is the OTT FUNERAL HOME INC., 805 Pennsylvania Ave., Irwin.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Norwin Library, 300 Caruthers Lane, Irwin, PA 15642. To send online condolences, please visit www.ottfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Vernail
Zach
June 4, 2023
We're coming up on 6 years since you've been gone. The fondest memories of my childhood were swimming at your house, the classic breakfast with meemaw of scrambled eggs and orange pop. I wish you and meemaw were here to tell you about where I'm at in life now and I miss you both everyday. I still remember you teaching me and Lauren Russian and all of the history lessons when we would sleep over. You both would be so proud of everyone, keep watching over us all and we'll see you again. Love you Paw
January 17, 2020
We miss you everyday Paw.
Your grandchildren are making you proud.
The young ladies are all beautiful and bright.
and your lone grandson is smart and kind.
RIP
Robert Vernail
July 10, 2018
Your brilliance, your humor, your caring and loving ways are missed by those who loved you most, your children, friends and students. While we suffer for lack of your presence, we are graced by your spirit always. May you have peace everlasting.
Robert Vernail
January 17, 2018
You are missed dearly.
Love you always.
Peace be yours.
Leslie Cenkner
November 26, 2017
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." ~ Isaiah 40:31 We are finally getting some closure. Miss you every day Dad.
Leslie Cenkner
November 10, 2017
Hey Dad. It's been 4 months today since you joined Mom in heaven. I won't lie. It's been a difficult 4 months. So much has happened that I know would make you sad. But, just like you and mom taught us, we will get through it. I miss our Sunday afternoon phone calls and hearing you say "Love you both." Please keep watching over us and I hope we are making you proud. We love you Dad.
Jenna Jenschke
October 22, 2017
You will always be in our hearts and minds. I love you so much Grandpa Jer!
Jenna Jenschke
October 22, 2017
Grandpa Jer was my amazing grandfather. I love and miss him so much. I loved giving him a hug, and doing fun things with him. I love and miss you so much Grandpa Jer.
Levi Frick
September 4, 2017
Please accept my deepest sympathies and I will keep the Vernail Family in my prayers. Your Dad was always there to lend a hand or a word of encouragement. Just remember, all the good times and memories will ease the loss.
Steve Dancisin
July 22, 2017
I don't recall many of my teachers from High School, but I do remember Mr Vernail (or Jerry) as I used to call him.I recall in class learning about buying a car (and the new car smell), how he told us the Dow will never cross 1300 (if I recall correctly it passed 1300 in our final days of high school), MPS, the "new" coke and so many other things. He taught life lessons .. Everyday when I walked into class I would say: "Jerry your favorite student is here". So sorry for his loss..
July 21, 2017
Mr. Vernail was a great teacher and a wonderful person. I will never forget his amazing investing lessons and how much I enjoyed speaking with him after class. He was one of those special teachers who make an impact in your life and who you never forget. I thought of him often through the years and was truly saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Sincerely, Michelle Pasquino
Joan Leukhardt
July 20, 2017
Howard and I extend our condolences to Jerry, Bob, Leslie, and Joey. Jerry was a good friend and teaching colleague for many years. Doris was my best friend through our years at Scull School, high school, and our married lives.You have lost both parents, but they created a legacy that lives on in you and your children.Best wishes as you go forward, remembering their lessons and love. Joan Leukhardt
Robert Vernail
July 20, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 20, 2017
Rest In Peace, DAD
You earned it.
John Neil
July 20, 2017
Dear Vince,(You Know whatI mean),
Dad had to be one of my absolute favorites and your mom helped introduce me to Cindy through Dr. Bradley.I still think of all you guys and the Irwin VFD.
Had I not become a funeral director,I would have gone into economics and poly science because of your dad.
What a great time hunting in Dunbar, too.
John Neil, [email protected]
MILAN KESSER
July 19, 2017
I HAVEN'T SEEN MR VERNAIL SINCE I WAS AT NORWIN JR HIGH WEST IN 1972, BUT I ONLY HAD 2 FAVORITE TEACHERS IN ALL THE YEARS THAT I WENT TO SCHOOL, AND MR VERNAIL WAS IN THAT TOP 2. GOD BLESS HIS SOUL FOR ALL ETERNITY. HE WILL BE IN MY HEART, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS, FOR EVER AND EVER.
Leslie Cenkner
July 16, 2017
Dad---It's hard to believe that it hasn't even been a week yet. This has been the 2nd longest week of my life. Of course you know the longest week was when we lost Matthew. I will never forget the look in your eyes when you took my hands and said how hard it was for you "to watch my baby bury her baby." And I am so sorry that we were able to fulfill your wishes of having some of Matthew's ashes buried with you. We have been saving some all these years. But we will be okay Dad. We will make you proud. And because of our faith, we know that one day we will all be reunited. I love you Dad.
July 16, 2017
Looking back, sometimes it's the small things that have a huge impact in your life. Mr. Vernail's assignment to research our chosen careers caused me to rethink my choice, make a better choice, and, I think, positively impact my life greatly. I truly think I wouldn't be where I am today if I had not had him as a teacher and spent an afternoon in the Irwin library completing that assignment. Thank you Mr. Vernail!
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
Robert Vernail
July 16, 2017
The Hirst family
July 15, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to the Vernail family for your loss. Sending prayers.
Jerry Vernail
July 14, 2017
Godspeed Dad
Rachel Winters (Henderson)
July 14, 2017
I, like many, had Mr. Vernail for economics my senior year of high school. I credit Mr. Vernail's assignment regarding what field we wanted to pursue post graduation as directing me towards my current occupation. Up until that point I wanted to be a computer analyst. With that project I researched what that position entailed and even went to work with my sister-in-law who was a computer analyst at PNC and realized that was not the field for me. I saw Mr. Vernail many years after I graduated and thanked him for that assignment and related this story. I'm not quite sure where I would be right now if it wasn't for that class and Mr. Vernail!
Pamela Rittenhouse Malfara
July 14, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the Vernail family for your loss. I remember Mr. Vernail as the assistant swim coach under Mr. Sam Marsico. Also as a member of my church growing up. So I can say that he was a wonderful person and was love by many. RIP Mr. Vernail.
Class of 1968
July 14, 2017
Mr. Vernail was a great teacher. I remember his no-nonsense and also witty ways, and he actually made economics less boring. Then years later, my son played baseball with his grandson. Mr. Vernail was at a game, and before I noticed him, he must have saw me. He walked right up to me and just stared at me for a minute until I recognized him. And then we both laughed and talked for a few mintues. That was almost twenty years after I had him in class. I'm sure he didn't remember my name, but he also didn't have to come over and say hello. Class act. My prayers are with you all. May he rest in peace.
Marta Matta
July 14, 2017
My deepest sympathy to the Vernail Family. A very nice man. I worked with him in real estate. I still make Mrs. Vernail's apple cake recipe.
Carol Prock
July 14, 2017
Living next to your family was quite the adventure . Now that we are all grown with families of our own , I can reflect back and realize how lucky we were to have had neighbors like you . The summer parties , trick or treat, swinging on our hammock.... I think of you often and when I do I smile . Mr Vernail , you will be missed . Jerry , Bobby and Leslie - love to all of you. Carol Calabro Prock
George Martincheck
July 14, 2017
My deepest prayers and condolences to the Vernail family. Your father was one of a kind and a motivator in many ways in school. May he be in heavens above watching down upon us. May we keep those lessons we learned from.his wisdom and character and continue on for him. May the Lord grant eternal rest and peace. May the Lord give strenght and guidance for all his family friends and all the lives he touched. Godspeed Sir Godspeed. Class of 1987
Jeffrey Yazwa Class of '90
July 13, 2017
I was a hyperactive student in Mr. Vernail's class. I had him right before lunch, poor guy. I'm certain I wore on his patience but he never waivered. He was a professional and I learned a lot from him. I still remember when he wrote TINSTAAFL on the board on the first day of school. He was right. There's no such thing as a free lunch. He will be remembered in a positive light by all his former students.
Kristine Sloane Brookshire
July 13, 2017
My condolences to the Vernail family. Economics class was always a an adventure with Mr Vernail. KISS....I still use that advice to this day...thank you Mr Vernail for sharing your gift of teaching with so many students...
Kelly Tomko-Carder
July 13, 2017
Ooooh Mr. Vernail... where to start? He was our neighbor, an extra Dad, my Econ teacher. He called me Kelly-ver-Lynn, never did tell me why! Ha. I remember our parents coming out and joining our kick ball games at the top of Pine St., when my Dad and he hosed down the alley one winter, so we could ice skate with our new skates.
Favorite story- my Dad and Jerry would compete every Christmas Eve when we were little, putting together all of our toys. who ever was done first would run across the alley and have a beer and gloat, watching the "loser" finish up construction.
He helped my mom so much through the years after my Dad passed, he was always a call away.
I am so sad for you guys, Jerry, Bob and Leslie and all of your family, please know I have lots more stories to share and laugh with you if you ever need a boost. (Lots about your Mom too) hugs to all
Patti Hugney (Eseny) Class of 1985
July 13, 2017
Mr. Vernail was one of my favorite teachers at NHS! He made his class interesting, and to this day I still think of it from time to time! My condolences to his family!
Gina (Cutruzzula) Barnes
July 13, 2017
Mr. Vernail was such a fun and genuinely nice teacher he actually made me more interested in Economics. He was very funny and easily related to us teenagers. I'm very sorry for your loss. Gina (Cutruzzula) BarnesNorwin Class of 1988
Kelly Gaura
July 13, 2017
I never had the pleasure of meeting you but think you raised the most kind and loving daughter... Leslie
July 13, 2017
I did not know Mr. Vernail, but am a big believer that a legacy lives on through their children and grandchildren. His daughter, Leslie, is a loyal and kindhearted friend. His granddaughter, Hannah, is a sweet-spirited and ambitious young lady that I'm sure made him so proud. He helped raise two ladies that are absolute blessings in the lives of those close to them and surely helped shape these fantastic personality traits. It sounds like he also made a profound impact on his former students. As we all know, it's the most special teachers that you remember in adulthood which is such a compliment to him. I am so sorry for your loss of this great man. Your family is near to our hearts through thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Susan Gallagher
July 13, 2017
From all of the "Florida Darby Kids" and Donna Jean to Jerry's entire family - our heartfelt thoughts and prayers. Every single trip north as kids always included time with the Vernails.
Additionally glad I got to visit with Jerry and Joan a few years back when I dropped in unexpectedly.
Last year at this time we spoke on the phone about his fond memories of Mom in time to add to the collection of stories compiled for her 80th. I giggled and laughed the entire call. Thank you Jerry for so many great memories!
Susan Darby Gallagher
[email protected]
July 13, 2017
Sincere Condolences David F O'Brien
July 13, 2017
Jerry you and Doris gave us so many happy memories! Loved picnics in Irwin, holidays in Greensburg and all the times we were home in Greensburg and got to see you at Barb and Jerry's. I know your children and grandchildren were and always will be in your heart!
Carrie Smith, Class of '89
July 13, 2017
Mr. Vernail was one of my favorite teachers at NHS. He touched so many lives in a positive manner. May he RIP. Prayers for your family.
Cindi Israel
July 13, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr Vernail was my economics teacher and probably one of the best teachers Norwin Sr High ever had. He introduced me to the stock market and, even 40ish years later, I still find myself checking the price of silver!
JoAnn Plecenik Mirise
July 13, 2017
I still remember Mr. Vernail writing KISS on the blackboard in huge letters and some of the teenage kids started making whistling/cat call sounds as Mr. Vernail laughed. Of course, he was finding a memorable way to teach us how the "Keep It Simple Stupid" principle applied to finance. I have used that knowledge my whole life.
Leslie Horwat
July 13, 2017
You have my sympathies and prayers during this difficult time. I remember Jerry fondly, he was a tough teacher but I learned a lot from him.
RIP Jerry
Anne Degre
July 13, 2017
RIP Mr Vernail. My high school days are a distant memory but your Economics class sticks out as a vivid memory!! I remember where I sat and your pink chalk. You did not disappoint this student with ur antics,humor and facial expressions.
Heaven gained an Angel
July 13, 2017
My deepest condolences to the family. Losing a loved one is painful but our God promise the we will see them again. May the words in Job 34: 14, 15 give you comfort in this sorrow moment.
Tony Calabro
July 12, 2017
My condolances to all family members.
We had many good times next door to each otherr.
Leslie: Carol is here in NHT with her 3 children. She is a CPA now and working for Deloitte and Touche accounting firm.
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