Vernon K. Svidal

Vernon K. Svidal, 88 a life-long resident of Devils Lake, ND passed away early Tuesday morning, March 14, 2017 at the Eventide Heartland Care Center, Devils Lake. Funeral Services for Vernon will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Gilbertson Funeral Home, Devils Lake with Reverend Lori Broschat officiating. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service.  Burial with Military Honors will be in the Devils Lake Cemetery at a later date. The family requests memorials in memory of Vernon be directed to the Devils Lake Public School Foundation or the ND Alzheimer’s Association. Vernon Karl, son of Karl and Mabel (Larson) Svidal was born on April 3, 1928 at Devils Lake, ND. He grew up and was educated in Devils Lake, graduating from Devils Lake Central High School in 1946.  Vernon began working for the Soo Line Railroad, but his employment was interrupted when he began service to his country on May 17, 1949 with the United States Navy. He served in the Aleutian Islands and was honorably discharged on February 26, 1953 with the rank of Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman (AMAN). After his discharge, he returned to Devils Lake and had a 37 year career with the Soo Line. He retired in 1986 and continued to make Devils Lake his home until his death. In retirement, Vernon had a passion for the game of golf. He played every day that weather permitted and many games as a member of the same foursome. He also always made time for his nephews and nieces, sometimes babysitting for them, but always interested in what they were doing and the special occasions in their lives.  Vernon always had a God given talent as a handyman. He could fix anything. He excelled as a carpenter, remodeler and at age 71 was still trimming some pretty tall trees.  When indoors, he loved to read.  Vernon was a member of the Town and Country Club and the VFW. He was the brother, uncle and friend that always held a special place in our hearts. He is survived by his many nephews and nieces and great nephews and great nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Alice Wiley, Agnes Dunn, Margaret Ayers and Jeanette McPhail and brothers Ludwig Svidal and Clifford Svidal.