Vern Coon

Vern W. Coon, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on November 30, 2023. He was born on June 16, 1939, in Pentwater Michigan to his parents Clyde and Estella Coon. 

Vern leaves behind his loving wife, Sylvia Coon. Together they created a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. Vern's children who he deeply loved, Nancy (John) Maynard, Dawn (Ken) Godeke, Marie (Tim) Strang and daughter-in-law Pat Enright. He is preceded in death by his son Brian Enright. Vern also leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren Shane (fiancé Sean), Jeremy, the late David, Alexis (Ian), Jerett, Jasper, and Lilja. His love for them was unwavering; he cherished every moment spent with them.

Vern had strong bonds with his siblings as well. He is survived by his brother Gayle (the late Marilyn) Coon and Adrian (Evelyn) Coon. Vern's sister Shirley (the late Jerry) Anthony and sister Donna (the late Bob) Gates also survive him. Their memories together are cherished by all. Vern will be reunited with his sister Katherine and her husband Theodore Van Den Heuvel who have preceded him in death.   Vern Coon will also be remembered fondly by numerous nieces and nephews whom he held dear throughout his life.
Vern served as a Sergeant in the Army from 1959 to 1961 as part of the Green Beret Reserves and the esteemed Paratrooper 101st Airborne division. He was also an aircraft mechanic. His bravery and commitment to serving his country were truly commendable.
Vern began his career at GM in Ypsilanti as a rate clerk many years ago. In this role, he dealt with insurance and freight trains, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills. After dedicating himself to his career for many years, Vern decided to retire, bidding farewell to the automotive industry twenty-nine years ago.  After retiring he took a job making dentures for a short time.

Vern had many hobbies, he enjoyed woodworking, carpentry, and home renovation projects. His love for these crafts led him to build a breathtaking fireplace mantle and shelves that added warmth and character to his home. He refinished furniture, including caning the seats of antique chairs. He made bookshelves, cabinets, book stands, tables, and many other things for family and friends. He had great mechanical skill and could fix cars, lawnmowers, and just about any other engine.  Also, he was a Star Wars fanatic, loved all of the Star Wars movies and watched them every year.

For many years, Vern and his wife Sylvia did War of 1812 historical reenacting. He made clothing accurate to the period, fired muzzle-loading cannons and flintlock muskets, rowed ship’s boats, and made other gear, including a sled for a cannon at the River Raisin Battlefield Museum in Monroe, Michigan. He was a member of the Amherstburg Provincial Marine reenactment group for several years.

 Vern loved being helpful to others, offering his help whenever possible.  He was a member of St. John’s episcopal Church in Plymouth where he was a member of the Men’s Bible Study group.    

Vern's commitment to his family and friends never wavered. He was dedicated, loyal, and always willing to lend a helping hand. His warm smile and friendly demeanor touched the lives of many, creating lasting friendships and cherished memories.  May Vern Coon rest in eternal peace, knowing that he was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

Vern's life will be celebrated during a visitation at Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 S. Main St., Plymouth, on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. The visitation will begin at 2:00 PM and end at 7:00 PM. Friends may also visit at St. John's Episcopal Church, 574 S. Sheldon Rd, Plymouth, Wednesday, December 6, 2023, beginning at 12:00 PM until the funeral service at 1:00 PM.
In Vern’s memory a donation may be made to the Huron Valley Humane Society.