Vernon Wilke, age 101, was born on November 25, 1924, to Henry and Amelia Wilke.,He passed away on November 10, 2026, two weeks before his 102nd birthday.
Vern grew up in south St. Louis working on his family’s farm, plowing fields by mule. He was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in World War II. During the Battle of the Bulge, a fellow soldier and friend set off a booby trap, and Vern carried him to safety. Once he returned to the jeep, it was discovered that Vern was hit by a piece of shrapnel. The piece lodged near his thoracic membrane was something he carried with him his whole life. He was awarded the Purple Heart.
After the war, Vern returned home and married Blanche Erseilus, and they had two sons, Clifford and Grant. They were happily married for over 70 years and loved to travel. Their favorite place was Destin, Florida, where they would catch red snapper and host fish fries for their family and friends back in St. Louis.
He enjoyed nature, animals, and plants, and he could often be found walking his property and tending to his farm.
He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America for over 20 years and was elected to the Order of the Arrow. He was also a proud member of Arnold VFW Post 2593, American Legion Post 176, and the Meramec Arnold Elks Lodge 2372.
He is survived by his son, Grant; his grandsons, Matthew and Christopher; and his beloved dog, Ernie.
Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Tuesday, November 24 from 4-8 pm. then at Salem Lutheran Church 8343 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Wednesday, November 25 from 9:00 am. until Funeral Service time at 10:00 am. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.