Vernon Darrell Rose

Vernon (Vern) Darrell Rose passed away unexpectedly in Smithfield, Virginia on September 11th, 2021, at the age of 67.
 
Vern was born on October 29th, 1953 in Vincennes, Indiana to Francis Jean Rose and Vernon Rose. He graduated from Rensselaer Central High School in 1972 and went on to be a standout collegiate basketball player for two years at Indiana State University, where he studied special education.  

Vern started his career farming and quickly mastered the ins and outs of the logistics required to make a farm successful.  Taking charge of his entrepreneurial spirit he was a farmer, a Sears store owner, and a printer until an opportunity came along in logistics.  He parlayed his background into an extremely successful logistics career, becoming an executive at numerous global companies including Americold Logistics, Smithfield Foods, and Cloverleaf Cold Storage.  More recently, Vern found a new passion consulting on various projects in which he could mentor and lend his expertise.  Although he was “retired”, he loved helping his vast network of friends, family, and colleagues.  He was such a great team-player, that his network was vast and his knowledge was deep.  He loved what he did and the people he worked with loved him.

Through his marriage to JoNina Hendrickson in 2005 he was gifted a daughter, and JoNina was gifted 3 sons. Vernon is survived by his wife, Nina, sons, Jason (Heather), Bryan (Heidi) Adam (Geneva) and daughter Nicole (Kari). His 17 grandchildren were the joy of his life. He is also survived by his brother David (Ann) and two beloved nieces.

Vern and Nina married in Key West in 2005 and spent the past 15 years in Smithfield, Virginia, hosting friends and family for gatherings around the pool, watching football, golfing, music, and so many other activities.  Over his life, the couple welcomed their children and grandchildren into their home and set about teaching them how to experience a beautiful life. His children remember him as a kind-hearted, spontaneous father who showed pride in them and encouraged them to pursue their goals.

Vern was a witty and generous soul who loved music, football, classic cars, and golfing. He also loved taking his beloved Spencer on daily walks, and hiding treats for Bella.  He was a former and dedicated member of the Jaycee’s and often donated to multiple local charities.  

A Celebration of Life is scheduled at a date and time in the near future.  

To honor one of Vern’s passions, the family requests that all donations be sent to The Fender Play Organization, which is a 501(c)(3) public charity organization committed to give youth access to the benefits of music education, outfitting them with the best equipment, supporting teachers to keep kids playing and introducing them to inspiring artists.”

Donations can be made in Vern’s name at https://fenderplayfoundation.org.  

We would like to thank friends, family, and caregivers for their efforts and dedication during this tough time.

Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.