Vernon Gregory

Vernon Delbert Gregory, 81, of Ottawa, passed away November 6, 2011 at Pleasant View Luther Home. Funeral Service for Vernon will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, November 10, 2011 at the Ottawa Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at the Ottawa Funeral Home. Burial will be in Ottawa Avenue Cemetery. Vernon was born January 11, 1930 in Ottawa, Illinois, to Delbert and Minnie (Carlson) Gregory. He is a retired electrician from Libbey-Owen Ford after 32 years of service. He graduated from Ottawa High School. He received an Associates Degree from Bradley University in Peoria in Horology (watchmaking, engraving, stone and diamond setting) and the same degree from I.V.C.C. in Electricity. Vernon served his country in the U.S. Army from 1951 - 1953, during the Korean War. He was in the 129th Infantry Regiment 44th Division Medical Company prior to receiving his airborne training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was a very proud veteran and member of the Ottawa American Legion Post 33, serving as Commander, Trustee, Finance Office, Color Guard, Honor Guard for 20 years, attending about 50 funerals per year, Chairman of the 82nd Airborne Division Association of the John Steele Chapter, and President of Ottawa Memorial Association. He loved family events and started some great family traditions. He was a life-long fan of the Chicago White Sox and enjoyed bowling on a league at Carretto's for many, many years. Vernon is survived by his partner of 35 years, Margie Corcoran; two daughters, Janice (Andy) Ruger and Linda Ugland (James Gage); one son, Michael (Cathy) Gregory; nine grandchildren, Jay, Adam and Megan Ruger, Rachael Lauer, Stephen, John and Katie Gregory, Alex and Dennis Bond; four great-grandchildren, Dru and Chance Ruger, Gavin Robertson and Chloe Lauer. He is preceded in death by both parents; sister, Ethel Clements; brother, Russell Waddell; and grandson, Erik Ugland. Pallbearers will be Jay and Adam Ruger, Stephen and John Gregory, and Patrick and Bill Corcoran. Memorials may be directed to Ottawa Salvation Army and LaSalle County Veteran's Home.