Vernon J. Marion

Vernon J. Marion, 78, passed away on November 10, 2016. Vernon was born in Portageville, MO on October 24, 1938. His mother was Mardie Mae and his father was Matt J. Marion.

Vernon was raised on a family farm until he joined the Navy. He spent 21 years in the Navy and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. After retirement, he worked as a boiler maker, millwright and outside machinist at Southwest Marine Shipyard in San Diego. He worked until he was 75 years old.

Vernon had a strong work ethic. He spoke often about being raised on the farm in Portageville Missouri. He loved talking about his time on the farm. He was the oldest of 11 children. He was the big brother that took care of things.

Not only did he speak a lot about his time on the farm, he also loved to tell stories about his time in the Navy. He could tell every detail of a story as if it was just yesterday. He was proud of his military record and actually attended reunions throughout the years with his shipmates. He was a member of the VFW and American Legion.

He was a great big brother, father, son, and husband. He was a simple man with a powerful voice, a strong hug, and a larger than life presence. He was generous to family and friends. He would help all in need. He loved living in San Diego and collected old cars. His plan in retirement was to restore the old cars and sell them. He will be missed by all that knew him. He leaves behind his wife (Mary), his children (Adele, Tina, Matt, Teddy, and Adam Lee), and his siblings (Jewell, Colleen, Lillian, Camille, Sheila, Dell, Matt, and Renee).