Carl M. Vernon

Carl M. Vernon, 76, of Agony Hill West, Waverly, NY passed away following a brave fight with cancer Thursday morning, September 1, 2011 at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre. Carl was born on November 3, 1934 in Sayre, PA a son of the late John and Laura (Whiting) Vernon. He was a graduate of Waverly High School Class of 1953. On June 30, 1956 he married Florence Searfoss and together they celebrated 55 years of marriage. Carl was a long time employee of America LaFrance in Elmira and was a self employed contractor and owner of Vernon's Construction. He built over 90 homes in the greater valley area including his daughters' homes in Waverly and California and both of his personal residences. Most recently he enjoyed wood working and furniture making. For over twenty-five years, Carl served as the Building Inspector for the Village of Waverly. An avid sportsman, Carl had a great love for the sport of softball. He started at the age of 21 and played for over 55 years. He sponsored and played on a team, Vernon's Construction that won the New York State Championship in 1980. That team represented the state in the National tournament in Maine that year. Carl was a member of the 2008 senior softball World Series Championship team, Syracuse Cyclones 70's (each team member was 70 years of age or older). He was inducted into the Syracuse Sports Hall of Fame as a member of that team. In addition, Carl enjoyed golf and bowling. He was a long time member of the Valley Bowling Association Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Lions Club, raising money to purchase glasses for those in need. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Over his lifetime, he attended countless band concerts, parades and high school and college sporting events in support of his family. In retirement, he and Florence enjoyed traveling. They ventured to Paris, France; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and 43 of our 50 states. Carl is survived by his wife of 55 years, Florence; his daughters: Annette and husband Paul Reinhardt of California; Lori and husband Joe Rossi of Waverly; his granddaughters: Rachel and Paula Rossi; step grandchildren: Stephaine and Max Reinhardt. His sister Shirley Searfoss; several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families also survive. Carl is predeceased by his parents John and Laura (Whiting) Vernon; brother Charles Vernon; sister Jane Vernon; brother-in-law: Harold Searfoss; and a nephew Stephen Searfoss. Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation and time of sharing memories on Tuesday, September 6th from 2 to 4 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. Memories and condolences may also be shared by visiting our website at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family in the Rossi Family Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Lori Rossi at the Waverly High School, Waverly, NY. Monies will used to set up sports scholarships in the memory of Carl M. Vernon.