Vernon Susmilch

Susmilch, Vernon

May 16, 1933 - January 27, 2024

Vernon Gail Susmilch, a devoted husband, loving father, and proud veteran, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at his Owasso residence. He was 90 years old.

 

Born on May 16, 1933, near Chicago in River Grove, Illinois, Vernon was the cherished son of Louis and Freida Lily (Haeger) Susmilch. He grew up in the Chicago area.

 

Following his high school years, Vernon enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on January 20, 1952, serving with honor for an impressive 22 years. Most of his military service was stationed at Grissom Air Force Base in Indiana, with an additional year-long assignment in Japan. Vernon retired from the Air Force on April 30, 1974, achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. Post-retirement, he continued to contribute to the aviation industry, working for Federal Express and Flight Safety.

 

On May 26, 1954, Vernon wed the love of his life, Sandra Elizabeth Temples, and they celebrated nearly 70 years of marriage. Vernon was known for his incredible handiness, capable of fixing almost anything. Even in his senior years, he embraced technology (with mixed results). He had successful auto reupholstery and television repair businesses, always ensuring his family's well-being.

 

Vernon had a dry sense of humor and was renowned for his wit. His drive for success, charm, and social nature made him a beloved figure. He enjoyed camping and fishing with his family in state parks throughout the United States. During their retirement years, Vernon and Sandra traveled the world, exploring destinations like Alaska, Germany, Hawaii, and Australia. An avid reader, puzzle enthusiast, cook, and skilled clock repairman, Vernon also excelled in stained glasswork, winning an award at the Tulsa State Fair. Woodworking was another passion he pursued with dedication as well as automobile restoration and repair.

 

Vernon is survived by his loving wife, Sandra, and their children Mark Susmilch (Joanne), Susan Rutherford (Charles Edward), Christy Bernal (Jose), and Michael Susmilch (Barbara Thomas). He is also remembered by his grandchildren Justin, Madison, Caroline, Melissa, Michelle, Matthew, Reid, Emily, and Corina, as well as great-grandchildren, McKenna, Graham, Nolan, Lily, Leighton, Ryan, Hank, Malcolm, Ollie, Mabel Jane, and Louie, Rilee, Reid Jr., Levi, and Landon, Gentri, Hannah; goddaughter, Glenda "Muffun" Ray, nieces, nephews and many cherished friends in the Owasso/Tulsa area.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Freida Lily Susmilch, and two brothers, Raymond and Glenn Susmilch.

 

A graveside ceremony with U.S. Air Force military honors will take place at 2 PM on Thursday, February 8, at the Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis., MN. Visitation is scheduled from 2-4 PM on Sunday, February 4, in the Parlor of Bixby-South Tulsa Funeral Service. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at 6 PM on Monday, February 5, at the Emersumnice Brewery in Owasso. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to COPD Foundation in Vernon's honor. Vernon will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his warmth, humor, and enduring love for his family and friends. May he rest in eternal peace.

 

Bixby-South Tulsa Funeral Service