Vernon L. Chmielewski, 89, peacefully passed away in his home on Thursday afternoon March 3, 2022.
He was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 18, 1932, to Chester and Clara (Wawrzyniak) Chmielewski and was raised in the Roseland neighborhood. He graduated from St. Rita High School in Chicago and went on to attend De Paul University to graduate with a Bachelor of Finance degree.
Vernon served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict until his Honorable Discharge in November of 1954. While serving, he administered the payroll for our American Prisoners of War.
In Chicago, Illinois on June 8, 1957, Vernon married Patricia Cavanaugh, and to this union came four children: Vernon, Edward, Bridget, and Timothy. They would raise their family and live in Illinois for 68 years. He worked as an accountant for Sherwin-Williams and served as a past board member for the Roseland Community Hospital in Chicago. The couple would move to Culver, Indiana in 2000 and become Arizona snowbirds for over 20 years.
Vernon was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Culver, the Romeo Club, and was a member of St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic Church in Culver.
He is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Pat, and their children: Vernon P. of Culver, IN, Edward of Los Angeles, CA, Bridget (Jeff) of Eagle Rock, CA, and Timothy (Jill) of Clarendon Hills, IL; grandchildren: Claire, Ava, Colin, Brendan and Eva.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gladys Bierzychudek.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 11, 2022, from 6-8 p.m. at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN. A rosary will be recited at 7:45 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2022, at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 605 N. Plymouth Street, Culver, IN, with Fr. Bill Meininger officiating. Visitation will resume one hour prior in the church.
Burial will follow in the Culver Cemetery, Culver with Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 605 N. Plymouth Street, Culver, IN 46511.
Caryn Durski, Funeral Director
Jack Spiek says
Pat my sympathy to you and your family. I worked for Vern at SW back around the early 70’s. My wife and I live in Peoria AZ now,
Lucy Donovan says
My sincere condolences, when I think of Culver, I can see him at CulverFest, and other activities at the park. He still lives in my memory. He will be missed.
Susan Bierzychudek says
A bright light has been dimmed with the passing of dear Uncle Vern. I’ll always think of him as entering every room smile-first, bringing with him the gift of laughter that he was ready to distribute freely.
Tanesja Young says
Tim…I’m so sorry for the loss of your dad. I’m keeping you, your mom, your siblings, and all those who loved him in my thoughts and prayers.
Beth Penfold says
Tim and Family,
I was so very sorry to hear of Vernon’s passing. I hope your family will be comforted by the many wonderful memories of your life together with him.
Steve Mathews says
Tim, I am very sorry for your loss. Thinking about you and your family during this difficult time.
Erik Derr says
Tim,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Kim and I are keeping you, your dad, and your family in our thoughts during this difficult time and are wishing you peace and comfort.
Les and Dawn Strinholm says
Dear Pat
Our condolences to you on Vern’s passing. We got to know you both thru Islander shuffleboard. (He was the best partner, combining with Dawn to win the annual tournament three times.) His quiet dignity and kindness to others was an example to others.
Again with sympathy
Les and Dawn Strinholm (Canada)
Cathy Shi says
Tim….I’m so sorry for your loss. My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to you and the rest of your family.
Louisa Lau says
Hi Tim,
Please accept my profound and heartfelt condolences for your Dad’s passing. May the precious and fond memories of him gives you and your family peace and comfort during this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Michelle Linker says
Tim, I am very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dawn Strinholm says
Dear Pat
Our condolences to you on Vern’s passing. We got to know you both through the Islander shuffleboard. (He was the best partner, combining with Dawn to win the annual tournament three times.) His dignity and kindness was was an example to all of us.
Again thinking of you.
Les and Dawn Strinholm (Canada)
Pooja Bansal says
Tim – So sorry for your loss. I am keeping you and your family in my prayers.
John Hill says
So sorry to hear of Uncle Vern’s passing. I always enjoyed our chats in the backyard. He will be missed. My condolences to the family.