Vernon Wigtil

J. Vernon Wigtil, 98, Moorhead, MN, died January 9, 2014, in Meriter Hospital, Madison, WI, while returning home from a family trip.

James Vernon Wigtil was born to Joseph and Anna (Moen) Wigtil on September 27, 1915, in Christine, ND. He attended school in Kathryn, ND, Litchville, ND, and Wolf Point, MT. Vernon graduated from Fargo (ND) Central High School and attended Minnesota State University Moorhead.

On July 11, 1937, Vernon married Jeanette Victoria Helgren in Fargo. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946, and was employed by St. John's Hospital, First National Bank and Trust Company, and the U.S. Post Office in Fargo. In 1946, he opened a public accountant office in Fargo and later moved his office to Moorhead, where he retired in 1994.

Vernon was a member of River Valley Church, serving in several capacities including choir director and board member. His interests included hunting and fishing, swimming, reading, traveling, visiting with relatives and friends at the lake, and visiting with everyone at West Acres Mall. He was dearly loved by his grandchildren who hold many special memories in their hearts, especially the summers spent with him as kids. His four-year-old great-granddaughter was the "highlight of his life."

Vernon is survived by his son, Dr. James (Dr. JoAnne) Wigtil, Fargo; grandchildren, Julie Bernthold, Columbus, OH, and Jon (Heidi) Wigtil, Pataskala, OH; great-granddaughter, Brecken Jeanette Wigtil; sister, Inez Davidson, Plano, TX; sister-in-law, Geraldine Wigtil, Cookeville, TN; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jeanette; son, Dennis; sister, Adelaide Anderson; and brother, Waldron Wigtil.

Visitation: Sunday, January 19, 2014, from 5 PM to 6 PM, with a prayer service at 6 PM, in Korsmo Funeral Chapel, Moorhead. Funeral Service: Monday, January 20, 2014, at 11 AM, in River Valley Church, Dilworth, MN; visitation one hour prior. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens, Fargo.

Memorials preferred to River Valley Church or a charity of your choice.