Becker, MN

August 12, 1935 – August 18, 2021

Age 86, of Becker. Passed away at his home with his loving family near on August 18, 2021.

Vernell Charles Smith was born to Charles and Violet Smith on August 12, 1935 near Hewitt Minnesota. He grew up on a farm near Eagle Bend, Minnesota. He went his first 8 years to a one-room country school. He graduated from Eagle Bend High School in 1953. He attended Gail Institute to learn to telegraph, bookkeeping, and train operating rules. Vern married Jeanette Eckel on November 15, 1955 in Eagle Bend, Minnesota. He worked for the Northern Pacific railroad as a depot agent for 15 years. They had 3 daughters Kay, Debra, and Lori. In 1961 Vern and Jeanette bought 80 acres to live on but in a few years they started farming. He and his wife Jeanette farmed in Becker, Minnesota for 33 years and retired in 1994. Vernell had many hobbies that he enjoyed. In retirement he loved working on his computer. He loved having his family near and enjoyed visits with all.

He is survived by his wife Jeanette of 65 years; daughters Kay (Armin) Metze , Debra (Julian), Berthiaume and Lori Smith;  grandchildren Ryan (Hatti) Moeller, Jason (Jessica) Moeller, Jodi (Randy) Friedl, Kenny (Karilee) Berthiaume, Todd (Erin) Berthiaume, Tye Berthiaume, Shawn (Quaid) Berthiaume, Jillian (Philip) Symes, and Courtney (Todd) Smith;  great grandchildren Avery, Bailey, Jordan, Noah, Xavier, Natasha, Scarlett, Julian, Ruby, Mackenzie, Peyton, Holden, and Parker; great great grandchildren Charlotte and Callum; sister Mary Petron (Eddie Miller).

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Violet Smith.

Funeral service at 4:00PM on Saturday, August 28, 2021 at Peterson-Grimsmo Chapel, 250 E Broadway, Monticello, with visitation one hour prior to service.

Interment Becker Cemetery in Becker, Minnesota.

Peterson-Grimsmo Chapel 763-295-2918  www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com