Vern Janke

Vern Janke, age 91, of Wheaton, MN passed away Sunday, June 28, 2020 at Sanford Hospital in Wheaton.

Vern Daniel Janke was born on January 25, 1929 at Tenney, Minnesota to Daniel and Mabel (Hess) Janke.

After graduating from Wheaton High School in 1947, Vern was inducted into the U.S. Army where he served as a staff sergeant during the Korean War.  He was released from service in the fall of 1954 and was transferred to the Army Reserves for six years.  He received his Honorable Discharge in November 1960.  Vern was awarded the following medals:  Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal, 2 Bronze Stars, U.N. Service Medal and National Defense Service Medal.  He also received a medal and service bar from the Republic of South Korea as well as a 50 year Korean Commemorative Pin.

Vern attended St. Cloud State University and NDSU before becoming foreman at Fabel Construction in Wheaton.

On July 12, 1958, Vern was united in marriage to Norma L. Edwards.  Vern and Norma made their home in Wheaton where Vern partnered with Art Laddusaw to build their construction company.  After Art retired in 1975, Vern formed Janke Construction Company.  Vern retired from the construction business in 1993.  After retirement, Vern spent almost every fall helping his son-in-law on the farm.

Vern was a city council member for 26 years and took great pride in the city of Wheaton.  He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching sports, especially the Twins, and sharing coffee with friends.

Vern is survived by his wife, Norma; children:  Kathy (Greg) Hoppe, Sherry (Dave) Aronson; grandchildren: Christopher (Lacey) Hoppe, Sarah (Doug) Nelson, Kelly (Jesse) Steberg, Neil (Rebecca) Aronson, Jack (Erica) Aronson, Seth Aronson; great grandchildren:  Jack Nelson, Mira Aronson, Trevor Steberg, Colton Steberg, Boe Aronson and Hunter Aronson.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Mabel Janke; two sisters:  Lois Wamsley and Ardis Wamsley; and one brother:  Horace Janke.

Due to Covid 19 restrictions, a private family graveside service will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in Wildwood Cemetery in Wheaton.