Br. Vernon Olmer, OFM, 88, passed away Jan. 21, 2024, at St. Mary's Home for the Aged in Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
A native of Humphrey, Nebraska, Br. Vernon entered the Franciscan Order on July 4, 1955. He made his simple profession on July 5, 1956; solemn profession on July 5, 1959; and was ordained to the priesthood on June 13, 1962.
Br. Vernon was dedicated to pastoral and fraternal ministry over the years. His assignments included serving as pastor at St. John the Baptist Parish in Jordan, Illinois, and St. Aloysius Parish in Bishop Creek. In 1990, he orchestrated the union of Holy Family and St. Agnes parishes. The new, consolidated church was named Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Community. Br. Vernon also served on the pastoral team at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Teutopolis, Illinois, from 2002-2013. From 2014-2022, he engaged in Shrine ministry at Cross in the Woods in Indian River, Michigan. In addition, Br. Vernon served the Order in a variety of roles, including assistant novice master and guardian.
Br. Vernon is survived by family members, friends and friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe. His funeral will be held in Humphrey. Details are pending.