Vernon Eugene Munkvold, age 91, passed away peacefully May 17, 2023 at his home in Arizona. Vernon was born on the original homestead 10 1/2 miles west of Viborg on January 16, 1932 to parents George and Marie. He joined his 2 older brothers, Ordell and Cornell, and then a few years later his younger sister Marilyn was born.
As a youngster, Vernon attended both Lone Star School and Meldahl Church. Vernon graduated from Irene High School and joined in the family farm with his father and brothers. In 1973, Vernon married Pam and together they raised two children, Kimberly and Gregory. Vernon loved working with the kids on their 4H projects and attending their athletic events and horse shows. When Vernon left farming, the family moved into Viborg and he started working at McKennon Hospital in Sioux Falls. He retired in 2009 after 17 years. At that time, he and Pam moved to Abilene, TX to be near Kim and the grandchildren. Vernon loved going to all their activities and having them come over to the house to watch game shows and eat cookies. Eventually, after one and a half years in Texas and one and a half years in Florida, they moved to Arizona in 2012.
Vernon loved watching professional tennis, his dogs, milkshakes, and traveling. He took many trips with his family to places like Disney World, Branson, Jamestown, and Gatlinburg. Vernon and Pam went on numerous cruises (23) with his favorite being the Panama Canal. He actually made Pam go twice! He had a long and happy life reaching the age of 91.
Vernon is survived by his wife, Pam; daughter, Kim (Col Justin )Boldenow; four grandchildren, Torin Munkvold, Abigail (Colin) Vining, Jackson Boldenow, and Jessica Boldenow; two great-grandchildren, Mila Munvkold and Stevie Rae Vining; his sister, Marilyn; his sisters-in-law, Carol Munkvold and Deborah (John) Stanton; as well as many more relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by parents, George and Marie Munkvold; his son, Gregory Munkvold; his brothers, Ordell Munkvold and Cornell Munkvold; his sister-in-law, Lois Munkvold; and his brother-in-law, Maynard Jensen.
Vernon was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Hanson Funeral Home in Irene, SD on May 31 at 2pm.