Vernon L. DeLay 92, passed on March 1, 2017 at George Ade Memorial Care Center, Brook, IN.  Vernon was born in the family home on HWY 41 just north of Kentland, IN on Nov 1, 1924 to the late Freeman and Phoebe (Crawn) DeLay. 

Vernon graduated from AJ Kent High School in 1942 and immediately joined the US Navy.  During WWII he served on the USS Alkes (AK 110), a supply ship in the Pacific Campaign.  He drove a supply landing craft in support of troops on Tarawa, Eniwetok, Guam, and Okinawa.  After the war, he briefly worked for the gas company in Lafayette, IN and then farmed until his retirement.

Vernon married Gladys Deardurff from Brook, IN upon his return from WWII in 1946 and who survives him after 70 years of marriage.   Vernon is also survived by his daughter Jo Kopp (Traverse City, MI) and son Rex (Indianapolis).  He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by two brothers, Charles and Dick DeLay.

When not farming, Vernon enjoyed woodworking and playing euchre.  He was a member of the Kentland United Methodist Church and the American Legion Post 23.

Friends and family may call from 10:00 a.m. (CST) until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. (CST) Monday, March 6, 2017, at the Trinity United Methodist Church of Kentland.  Pastor Clint Fink to officiate this celebration of life. Private inurnment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Vernon’s name to Trinity United Methodist Church of Kentland or George Ade Memorial Care Center

Share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com.