G. Vern Diedrick
G. Vern Diedrick, 87, of Woodridge, IL, at rest January 11, 2024. Born August 25, 1936 in Detroit, Michigan to George and Wilma Diedrick. Beloved husband of 67 years to Marlene (nee Rupp); loving father of Bill (Nancy), Shawn (Bud) Landeck, Steve (Gale) and Larry (Bobbi) Diedrick; devoted grandfather of Shane, Sarah, Nina, Nick, David, Danielle, Bobby, Alli, Doug, Matt, and Michael; dearest great grandfather of many; fond uncle of many. Vern was a very proud graduate of the University of Michigan and held executive positions at General Motors, Chase Manhattan Bank, Federal Signal and United Nuclear Corporation. The General Motors experiences took him and his family to live in five other countries, New Zealand, Norway, Denmark, South Korea and Mexico – 5 of 29 moves. He often teased that he moved so much because he couldn’t hold a job. As a young man Vern had his own band playing the saxophone, hence his great love of music. He could never leave a restaurant without “meeting new friends”. He was a humble, grateful man who worked very hard to provide for his family. His workmates often said of him that he ruled with an iron fist but a velvet glove – he believed that firmness can be couched with outward gentleness. He embraced the Catholic faith and the teachings of John Paul II. He will be deeply missed by his loving family. A Celebration of Vern’s life will take place when the Cemetery springs forth with new life. Arrangements entrusted to Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Info 630-852-8000 or westsuburbanfh.com
To my beloved 2nd Dad Vern,
Just thinking of you makes my heart smile. You loved me as your own daughter since the day Larry introduced me to you and Marlene over 40 years ago. You had the best smiles and the awesomest hugs and you were always quick to compliment me or remind me how special I was. There are so many mannerisms of Larry’s that remind me of you and now our sons and grandsons will hopefully also carry on some of those special qualities. You never met a stranger and you loved your family fiercely. Your work ethic was unparalelled and the commitment you and Marlene made to raise your children in so many foreign countries with no help from extended family is quite incredible. You loved sports (go Blue!) and our kids loving growing up with grandpa a few feet from their huddles; you were so generous (oh those Lawry dinners and fabulous Annapolis seafood meals!!) and kind (caring for uncle Bob in his final days) and wow, what a fighter. I know you wanted to stay on earth as long as possible to keep enjoying all the grandchildren and great grandchildren who adored being in your presence. I hope you are enjoying life as an angel. Trust I will be turning upward to you often asking for some advice, virtual hugs and a few more complements. Love you immensely. XO Bobbi
Uncle Vern was someone that I always looked up to since I was little. I remember the weekly telephone calls he and Grandpa Rupp had on the weekends. He was always kind, caring for those he could help. After my mom, Kathryn, had passed away, Shawn suggested I reach out to him. We had a lovely chat about a letter I’d written Uncle Bob before he passed over a decade prior. The conversation I had with Uncle Vern was such an uplifting and delightful one. I’m sad that I didn’t have the chance to have one more. Rest in peace, Uncle Vern. You’ll be missed.
So sorry to hear of Vern’s passing! He was a special man, rooted in faith and family! I will always remember him at our football games at Montini. He was always positive and supportive, no matter what the outcome. He was especially excited about our state championship teams that his grandsons play on! He will be missed, but always remembered with admiration, and a smile on our faces! RIP!
Coach A