Vernon Lee Lucas,  known as Vernie, was born on January 1, 1936, in Berthoud, Colorado, to Clarence Exodus "Shorty" and Ellen Mildred (Tummonds) Lucas. He passed away peacefully at his home in Akron, Colorado, on June 11, 2026, at the age of 90, surrounded by his loving family.

Vernie married his high school sweetheart, Jean Moots, on August 21, 1955. Together they shared 70 wonderful years of marriage, celebrating their milestone anniversary last August. Their union was blessed with two children, Scott Lee and Patty Jo.

Vernie attended elementary school in Berthoud before moving to Akron in the seventh grade. He graduated from Akron High School in 1955, where he was an avid athlete, participating in basketball, track and football.

A hardworking and dedicated man, Vernie had a strong work ethic throughout his life. He began by helping raise hogs on the family farm with his father and went on to hold many roles over the years. He worked at the Akron Farmers Elevator, served as a lineman for YW Electric Association in Akron, and owned and operated Northeastern Colorado Tree Service and Battery Service. He later drove the Washington County Express Bus, provided handyman services at ABC alongside his daughter Patty, and worked as a night security guard at Monfort and Pinneo Feedlots in Yuma and Brush. In addition, he worked at Walmart in Sterling.

Vernie had a passion for tinkering with motors, fixing cars and motorcycles, and spending countless hours in his garage. He took great pride in home improvement projects. Above all, he cherished his family. He faithfully attended his grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's sporting events, school activities, and celebrations, rarely missing an opportunity to support and encourage them.

He spent his life building strong family connections and lasting relationships. His kindness, wisdom, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Vernie will be remembered for his deep love of family, his strength of character, and the many lives he touched throughout his 90 years. His legacy lives on in the family he treasured and in the memories shared by those who loved him.

Vernie was a devoted member of the Akron Church of Christ, where he enjoyed attending services and participating in leading worship.

He is survived by his son, Scott (Debbie) of Greeley, Colorado; his daughter, Patty (Dave) of Akron,  and his grandchildren: Amanda (Justin) Flynn of Greeley, Valerie (Aaron) Edinger of Eaton, Veronica (Matt) Preston of Johnstown, Calvin Denbo of Greeley, Daniel (Kayla) of Akron, and Destiny (Sam) DeCosta of Eugene, Oregon. He is also survived by his cherished great-grandchildren: Kaitlynn, Ellie, Everett, Cameron, Capri, Cortana, Dexton, Corbin, Jaylynn, Tyler, Vincent, Emily, Ava, Dirklyn, and Mason, along with many extended family members who brought him great joy.

One of Vernie's greatest gifts was his ability to tell a story.  Whether he was sharing memories from his childhood, recounting adventures with family and friends, or describing everyday events, he had a special way of making people laugh.  His quick wit, sense of humor, and talent for storytelling brought joy to countless gatherings.  Family and friends will forever cherish the laughter, smiles, and treasured memories he created through the stories he loved to tell

Among the many special moments in his life, one he especially treasured was the birth of his great-granddaughter Ellie Marie on his 71st birthday.

Vernie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean; his parents, Clarence "Shorty" and Ellen Lucas; his brother Harvey; his sister Leora and brother-in-law Clifford White; his sister Maxine and brother-in-law Leonard Ashcraft; his sister-in-law Glenda Moore; his sister-in-law Jane Brown; and his in-laws, Wayne and Ermaline Moots.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 16, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Christ in Akron, Colorado, followed by burial at the Akron Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to Bowin Funeral Home.

The family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate Vernie's life and honor his memory. They extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.