Vernon Gilbert of Gatzke, MN passed away on Monday, February 19, 2018 at his home at the age of 92.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 3:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN with Reverend Bob Dahlen officiating. Burial will be held at a later date.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the memorial service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Vernon Henry Gilbert was born on December 15, 1925 in Golden Valley (Agassiz Refuge), the son of Fleet and Helga (Fridberg) Gilbert.  He was baptized on September 4, 1961 and confirmed September 17, 1961 in the Lutheran faith. Vernon attended Marshall County Elementary School and junior high school in Thief River Falls, MN.

In 1945 Vernon drafted into the United States Army and served with the 42nd Infantry Division (Rainbow) in Salzburg, Austria.  His unit was in charge of taking down communication lines throughout Austria.  Vernon was honorably discharged in 1946.

Upon returning home from the service, Vernon attended the University of Minnesota Crookston for Agriculture.  He made his home in rural Gatzke where he farmed and took care of his mother.

Vernon enjoyed writing, listening to, and playing music.  He also enjoyed playing cards and Nintendo and visiting with friends and family.  Vernon's yard was home to many wild critters including deer and bear.  Vernon had a passion for farm animals – spending his entire career raising and caring for them.  He will be remembered as a kind and gentle uncle and Grandpa V.

Vernon is survived by his brother, Roy (Ruth) Gilbert of Grand Forks, ND; sister, Irene Platt of Hibbing, MN; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great great-nieces and great great-nephews; and special family of Charisa and Glen Limesand and children Chelsey and Brooke who called him Grandpa V.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, George (Myrtle) and Lawrence (Eloise); brother-in-law, Pete Platt.