Vernon Teeple, 82

Vernon H. Teeple, 82, of Sturgis, died Aug. 15, 2009, following a long illness. He passed away at the Veteran’s Palliative Care Ward in Battle Creek, Mich., with his family by his side.

He was very proud of his military service, serving his country in the U.S. Naval Air in World War II. He enlisted after his only brother, Staff Sergeant Richard J. Teeple, was killed in Negros Island, Phillippine Islands.

Vernon was born on March 6, 1927, in Dearborn, Mich., to Harold and Nellie Teeple. He attended Dearborn Schools and graduated from Fordson High School.

On Aug. 21, 1948, he married Clara Rantz, also from Dearborn. At the time of his death, they were married 61 year. He and Clara had three sons, Rance (Diane) of South Lyon, Richard (Judy) of Dearborn and Wes (Cheryl) of Sturgis. He also had five grandchildren, Brad, Cassie, Stephanie, Rantz and Ryan, who gave him a great deal of pleasure. He is also survived by one sister, Marilyn (Hank) Kazner of Reno, Nev., and one sister-in-law, Helen (Charles) Kayson of Rockwood, Mich; and many nieces and newphews. He was happiest when he was hunting, fishing and camping with his family.

After the war, Vernon and his father started a small print shop, Du Processing in Dearborn. He worked at that for 16 years until his father’s death. After selling the business, he was employed at Gaylord Printing Company until his retirement in 1989.

He was prceded in death by his parents, a very young brother and sister and his military brother, Richard.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Fort Custer National Cemetery.