Vernon Edward Reyburn, age 94, of Grand Rapids, passed away to be with the Lord on February 21, 2013. Preceding him in death was his wife of 66 years, Luella Evelyn (Campbell) Reyburn. Luella was truly the love of his life, his “Dolly,” and his devotion to her was evident in his tender care of her throughout her life. Vernon took great pride in his two sons, Dr. F. Scott (Phyllis) Reyburn of Spring Lake, and Dr. Thomas (Sherry) Reyburn of Fruitport. He greatly enjoyed his grandchildren, Dr. Jennifer (Dr. Mark) Kuiper, John (Jamie) Reyburn, and Katherine Reyburn and his three great granddaughters: Rachel, Hannah, and Julia Kuiper. Vernon was a member of the “greatest generation,” and was very proud to have served our country as a Merchant Marine during World War Two. Vernon worked at Northwestern Mutual for over 35 years, becoming one of the oldest active members of the organization. He loved to learn and became a CLU for Northwestern Mutual. Vernon was an avid fisherman and downhill skier–a sport he started at age 65. He was a member of the “Silver Streakers,” a seventy-plus ski club and enjoyed ski trips in the Rockies. Vernon served as a board member for “Heal the Children.” He and Luella took great interest in the organization’s efforts to provide needed surgeries for children in the developing world. In his retirement, he began growing dahlias, whose beautiful blooms brought great pleasure to many, especially to his beloved Luella. Vernon will always be remembered for his love to sing, participating in his church choir, as well his love to dance with Luella. They were members of Hope Lutheran Church and Pastor Daniel Gruenwald will be officiating the funeral service. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at at the O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI. Funeral Services immediately following at 11:00 am on Saturday.
