Gary Lee Vernieuw passed away on June 16, 2026, at the age of 91, from squamous cell carcinoma.
He was born on Nov. 3, 1934, in Ogden, Utah, to Samuel and Ava Vernieuw.
Gary married Eudena Vernieuw on Oct. 20, 1956, in Evanston, Wyo.
He was raised and educated in Evanston, graduated in 1952, and was part of the 1951 Evanston Red Devils State Championship Football team. He attended the University of Wyoming, where he also played football. He served in the Navy during the Korean War.
He worked at Hill Air Force Base as a fireman, retiring as Deputy Chief in 1984. He and Eudena moved back to their beloved Wyoming shortly thereafter, settling in Big Piney. He loved working with his hands, always finding something to build or tinker with in his wood shop. He was gifted at fixing almost anything.
He was a Master Mason and served as Worshipful Master of Weber Lodge #6 in Ogden, Utah. He was a member of the Shriners and played trombone in the band. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite, American Legion and the Elks (AZ). He was an active member at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Ogden before moving back to Wyoming.
Gary is survived by his son Terry, daughter Kathleen, seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and his brother Blair (Juanita), along with several loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Eudena, and son Samuel.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be conducted at a later date in Big Piney.
The family would like to thank Active Hospice for their kindness and care in his final days.
