Vernon Pries

Vernon Pries passed away on October 27, 2015, under the care of Iowa River Hospice and in the presence of his loving family. A private memorial service will be held at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home. Per his wishes, no public services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Central Iowa Art Association and the Marshalltown Animal Rescue League. For condolences or questions please visit: www.mitchellfh.com. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Vernon and his family. Phone 641-844-1234. Vern was born on November 22, 1931 in Tripoli, Iowa at the farm home of his parents, Arnold and Luella Pries. He graduated from Tripoli High School in 1949. Vern enlisted in the US Army and proudly served his country in the Korean War as a machine gunner in 1952 and 1953, being wounded on Harry Outpost. He earned three bronze combat stars, the combat infantry badge and many more medals. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and the American Legion. After being discharged in 1954, he moved to Marshalltown, Iowa and became a State Farm insurance agent for the next 40 years, making many friends. He enjoyed helping people. After retiring, he decided to return to his artwork, and was active in the Central Iowa Art Association. Vern married his loving wife, Elvera Axberg, in April of 1955 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Vern is survived by his wife, Vera, of Marshalltown; three children: Roger (Deena) Pries of Ankeny, Mary (Bill) Clark of Eagan, MN, and Janet (Jeff) Boeyink of Ankeny; eight grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren; his sister, Valitha (Orville) Ellis; nephew, Mike Ellis; and niece, Connie Ellis, of Marshalltown.