February 13 1950-August 19, 2026
Congeniality and Service Shaped His Life
Service Worker Extraordinaire
Vernon was dedicated to community service. His quick wit and gracious, mischievous smile endeared him to all who knew him. He made people feel valued and affected countless lives with kindness and generosity.
Vernon’s diverse interests and boundless enthusiasm made him a joyous traveler, explorer of new places, seeker of fresh perspectives and voracious reading broadened his understanding of the world. Those enjoyments were only exceeded by his love of being with family and friends; which he cherished most.
He lived in Phillips and Whittier neighborhoods all of his life and volunteered there and other communities of Minneapolis to improve the quality of life and strengthen the communities he loved. Education was a fervent passion capped by graduation honors at the old South High School, 1968; BA from Metro State and MPA from Hamline U.
Vernon staunchly supported the alley Newspaper from its beginning 50 years ago, was Editor for 13 issues 1979 to 1980 and continued contributing advice, writing and donations since.
His career was distinguished as Chief of Staff to Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton in her first term, in key roles on commissions and last professional role with the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority, where his dedication to improving community welfare left a lasting impact.
Vernon wrote a tribute to Karen in the alley, October 2018, when she retired from 38 years of elected State office, “I have known Karen for over 40 years and have been her campaign treasurer for 31 years. She has always kept the hearts, souls and minds of her constituents as part of her legislative work. I can speak to the tireless hours she has put into her work.” These words can be said about Vernon, too. Karen Clark died forty days before Vernon’s death and her Memorial Ceremony was September 18th.
Vernon’s parents, Vernon G. Wetternach and Elvera I.Wetternach have died. His siblings Bruce (Fran), Brian (Becky), Carol (Norman), Lawrence (Marilyn), and Cheryl; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends continue Vernon’s legacy of love, laughter, and service to inspire.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Vernon’s memory to a charitable organization of your choice, reflecting his lifelong commitment to community and service.
A service to celebrate Vernon’s tireless dedication, hard work, and good nature
was held September 24th at Lakewood Cemetery Chapel. Many family and friends joined in honoring his memory and celebrating his life.
