Vernon Leonard Dagoberg, 97, of Stephen, MN, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2024 in Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND.

Born on April 25, 1926, in Parker Township, Marshall County, Minnesota, Vernon was a lifelong resident of Stephen, MN. He was a hardworking farmer and carpenter who possessed a strong work ethic and unwavering dedication to his family and faith.

Vernon attended Donnelly School for his primary education and later graduated from Stephen High School in 1944. He married Doris Maxwell on November 11, 1946, at the First Lutheran Parsonage in Stephen, currently the home of Cliff and Jean Nyland. Vernon and Doris spent 68 married years together before her passing on April 10, 2015. Vernon embarked on a career in farming and carpentry, which he thoroughly enjoyed. After retiring from carpentry, Vernon often remarked that farming was a "piece of cake." He cared deeply about the success of local farmers and constantly worried about their crops, rainfall, and harvesting. Vernon was an inaugural member of the Stephen Flying Club formed in the 1950s, later gaining his pilot license. At 91 years old, he took the jump of a lifetime, tandem skydiving. He started by doing a summersault out of the airplane and landed like a bird on water.

A devout member of the community, Vernon worshipped at First Lutheran Church in Stephen, MN, and spent countless hours straightening the headstones at the Stephen Cemetery. He found solace and guidance in his faith throughout his life. In his free time, Vernon indulged in woodworking, crafting beautiful birdhouses, bowls, and candlestick holders. He possessed a remarkable talent for fixing things and had a passion for playing bridge (especially with his kids) and shooting pool. Vernon loved hunting birds and deer. He and his late wife, Doris, spent countless hours together on the lake fishing, creating cherished memories. In retirement, they explored this beautiful country embracing the opportunity to travel and engage with people from all walks of life.

Vernon is survived by his loving children, Michael Dagoberg (Hai), Mark Dagoberg, Susan MacMillan (Scott), and Cathy Childers; his grandkids, Sarah Dagoberg, Elizabeth Dagoberg, Brock Childers, and Megan Childers; his great-grandkids, Braden Dagoberg, Jackson Dagoberg, Elliot Weber, and Tatum Weber.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris, infant son, John, as well as his parents, Leonard and Ida Dagoberg, sisters, Wanda and Helen, and brother, Donald.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 9, at 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Stephen, MN. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to First Lutheran Church, the Stephen Ambulance, or the Stephen Cemetery. Association.

Vernon Leonard Dagoberg will be remembered fondly for his dedication to his family, his unwavering work ethic, and his love for his community. May his soul rest in eternal peace.