Vernon George Draeger

Vernon George Draeger, 102, passed away Sunday morning, March 4, 2018 at the 11th Street Chautauqua Guest Home in Charles City.

Vernon was born on the dining room table of his family ‘Century Farm,’ east of Rockford where he resided until Valentine’s Day when he fell, fracturing a hip socket and pelvic bones.  Following a brief hospitalization, he was transferred to the care center for therapy and recovery, showing improvement.  Yet while eating his daily breakfast-of-champions, Cheerios, in the dining commons and surrounded by others, he gave a brief shout, breathed his last breath, and was immediately with the Lord.  During the week preceding his death he saw a particular angel come into his room every night, he said, to sit with him until he fell asleep, deeply comforted by God’s presence.

Vernon in preceded in death by his parents, George and Lydia (Bartz) Draeger; daughter, Dianne Draeger; grandson, William Draeger Hedlund; and many other friends and family members.  He is survived by his wife, Donna Draeger; daughter, Dorothy David Draeger; and grandsons:  Andrew, Phillip and Joel Hedlund who live out of state.

Vernon was an only child to a strong couple of pioneer spirit, still speaking German in their home, later attending class in one-room schoolhouses before transferring to Charles City, where he completed his education with an emphasis in agriculture.  His father homesteaded their farm in 1908, but was also a carpenter, teaching Vernon the skills of the trade.  He enjoyed working in the fields, starting out with horses, then seeing the transition to tractors.  He also cared for a wide variety of livestock through the years, retiring at age 75.

Vernon’s secret to a long life was living a simple and disciplined life, doing his best one day at a time, and honoring God with a spoken prayer upon his lips every night.  He kept going when the going was tough, and never backed down for crippling arthritis, continuing to mow 2-3 acres every week on his Dixon through last fall, well past 101 years old, and with almost daily trips into town.

Special thanks to Dr. Royer, Floyd County Medical Center personnel, the ambulance team and the Chautauqua Guest Home staff for their excellent care in helping him make this life transition.  Heaven is for real.

Vernon will be greatly missed.  A memorial service luncheon will be held at the Charles City Library in the Zastrow River Room, Friday, March 30 from 12-1:30 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to the family for trees that will be planted at the farm.

Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of local arrangements.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.