Vernon Anthony Gourneau was born April 2, 1940 to Isadore and Evelyn (Brunelle) Gourneau. He passed away on May 5, 2022 at his home in Belcourt, ND at the age of 82. Vernon married Karen (Morin) Gourneau on June 29, 1963 at St. Ann's Catholic Church. Together they raised five children; Dean, Vernon Jr., Lori, Daryl and Kelan.

Vernon was a humble man who cared deeply for his family and friends. He grew up in Belcourt, ND. and attended the government school as a child. He graduated from high school in Marty SD (1958). Then enlisted in the U.S. Army (Infantry) in 1959 and was stationed in Germany.  Once honorably discharged, Vernon attended Wahpeton College earning credentials in printing. He worked for the Minot Daily Newspaper as a printer. In 1963, Vernon married Karen (Morin) Gourneau and returned to Belcourt. Together they moved to Wisconsin where he worked for a printing company for a few years before returning back home. He worked at the Rolla Jewel plant until he gained a position at the Belcourt School District as a bus driver. He drove bus for 17 years before retiring at the age of 62. Vernon was a jack of all trades. He was very good in math and enjoyed woodworking, and construction building toy chests, and music boxes for his grandchildren and other family members. He offered his time to the church by fixing and renovating areas that needed repair. His hobbies were hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, gardening, throwing horseshoes and teasing and playing with his nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Through the years he earned many trophies in sports. He was a state class B basketball champion in South Dakota. Vernon lived a long life, and lived his faith, he was devout to his wife, family and church which he greatly cherished. His motto was "go to church and pray daily". He prayed the rosary daily for many intentions especially for family members in need. Vernon was loved and he was our rock. Dad will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community.

Vernon is survived by his children Dean, Vernon, Lori, Daryl and Kelan (Twila) Gourneau and 20 grandchildren. Cole, Brittany, Skye, Cheylon, Brayton, Ashton, Danielle, Bailey, Tori, Molly, Gabe, Sabra, Ciera, Macy, Jonathon, Tanner, Tanely, Ayden, Jerney, Kenlan and 5 great grandchildren. Also survived by, 4 brothers: Isadore, Randy (Lila), Clark (Phyllis), Warren (Pauline), 5 sisters: Shirley, Debbie, Carrie (Lawrence), Colleen (Lee), Denise (Leonard), and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Vernon was preceded in death by parents, Isadore and Evelyn Gourneau, brother, Douglas (Juggy) Gourneau and wife, Karen Virginia Gourneau.

Casket Bearers are Cole Jerome, Brayton Gourneau, Ashton Gourneau, Ayden Gourneau, Carl Bercier, Craig Martin, Randy "Bud" Gourneau, and Bradley Gourneau.  Honorary Bearers are sons, Dean, Vernon Jr., Daryl, and Kelan, brothers, Isadore "Cujo", Randall, Clark, and Warren, and grandsons, Gabriel, Skye, Jonathon, and Tanner.  Military Honors by the Lilley-Dionne American Legion of Belcourt and the Military Funeral Honor Guard of Grand Forks.  Readers are Debbie Marion and Colleen Davis.  Eucharistic gifts by Isadore "Cujo" and Clark Gourneau.  Music by Leonard Keplin and friends.  Rosary led by Denise Keplin and Debbie Marion.

A visitation will begin at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND with Rosary Service at 7:00 PM.  Funeral Mass will be Thursday, May 12, 2022 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND.  Father Dave Brokke officiating.  Burial will be in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery, Belcourt, ND.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.