Born May 17, 1944 — Passed May 18, 2025

Today, we gather not just to mourn the loss of a man, but to celebrate the remarkable life of someone who meant so much to so many—Vern Erisman.

Vern was born on May 17, 1944, and he lived his 81 years with the kind of passion, grit, and humor that you just don’t see every day. If you knew Vern, you knew a true “guy’s guy”—a man who loved the outdoors, felt at home with a fishing rod in hand or behind the wheel of a four-wheeler, carving through trails with a smile on his face and the wind in his hair. He didn't just enjoy life—he lived it on his terms.

Vern was a proud local union worker, a man who valued hard work and solidarity. He put in his time and earned his early retirement—something he truly made the most of. Whether it was a late-night poker game where he always seemed to have a trick up his sleeve or just sitting around telling some of the best—okay, corniest—dad jokes, Vern knew how to make people laugh  and to enjoy the moment.

But maybe what made Vern truly special wasn’t just what he loved to do, but social person he was.   He had a gift—not just for making friends, but for becoming a father figure to many who didn’t have one. 

He is survived by his loving children, Bryan Erisman and Valerie McClaskey. His beloved daughter Shelly Elliott, who passed away two years ago, no doubt welcomed him with open arms. He also leaves behind a proud legacy: six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren—and one more on the way. Each of them carries a piece of him forward, in their laughter, their resilience, and their sense of adventure.

Though he's no longer with us in body, his spirit will remain at the lake, on the trail, in the poker hand, and in every well-timed dad joke we share.

We’ll miss you, Vern. But we’ll carry you with us—always.

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