Vernon Lloyd Weible 1930 - 2016

Vernon Lloyd Weible, a friend to all who knew him, passed from this life on Friday, September 9.

He was born in Nebraska in 1930. Vern's family moved to Camas, Washington, in 1936, where he cultivated a life-long appreciation for the outdoors and life's simple pleasures. Graduating from Mortuary Science College in 1955, he would spend the next 61 years providing dignified and compassionate service to thousands of people in their final stage of life.

Vern's accomplishments in this life were many: a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, president of the Oregon Association of Mounted Posses, president of the Oregon Cemetery Association, an Elk for life and a founding member and president of Oregon Equestrian Trails were among those he was most proud of.

Vern excelled at horsemanship, trying to fix anything, telling stories, outsmarting squirrels, never complaining, acts of kindness, forecasting weather and reading any Western paperback he could get his hands on. He loved watching sports, trail-riding, hard work, a cold beer, a good nap and laughter. He was ever-patient, selfless, honorable and a true gentleman. He never failed to salute the flag, or help someone in need. When he hugged you, you knew it.

To those who knew Vern, he was a friend, a mentor, a compadre, a rock, a hero. He inspired us by his generosity and wisdom, and warmed us with his smile and wit. In the end, Vern taught us that courage is all about being scared, but saddling-up anyway. His spirit is now free to ride beside God, and explore the starry range of the Universe - just him, his horse Sleepy and a small pack of dogs.

He is survived by his great love and soul-mate, Sandra, and his treasured children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We grieve the loss of Vern in our lives, but are profoundly grateful for the life he shared with us.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you spend time with your loved ones, enjoy the quiet beauty of a sunset, befriend a stranger, and raise a glass to the enduring wonders of this life. That is what Vern would wish for each of us.

A private memorial service will be held. Please visit the guest registry for the family at http://www.niswonger-reynolds.com. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Oregon Equestrian Trails, 1017 S.E. Sunnyside Rd. #101, Clackamas, OR 97015 http://www.oregonequestriantrails.org or Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, P.O. Box 130, Sisters, OR 97759.

Information provided by the family and friends of Vernon Lloyd Weible.