Vernon George Toellner

Vernon G. Toellner, age 86, passed away on October 19, 2021, at Ascension Mercy Medical Center in Oshkosh, WI. Vern was born on February 5, 1935, in Nichols, WI, to the late Walter and Alice (Eckert) Toellner. He graduated from Washington High School in Milwaukee. He served in our military as an Army engineer and was stationed in Germany. He retired from the city of Milwaukee's Metro Sewerage District (MMSD) where he worked his way up as an Inspector. Vern married Gail Chapman on May 27, 1961. The couple recently celebrated 60 years of marriage and had 5 children. Vern spent many years as an active member in church and school activities serving on the PTA school board and church council. He was an active member in a bowling league and also his local snowmobile club. He also was an avid volunteer at the Iola Car Show. Vern was happiest when he was with his family, and when he could enjoy nature. He enjoyed being outside and gardening. He always had food and seed for many birds, deer, and other local wildlife. People who knew him would say he was a happy, fun, and gentle spirit who liked to connect with people and make them smile by offering his hugs and treats. Vern is survived by his loving wife, Gail Toellner; five children, Renay (Burton) Rutter, Travis (Vicki) Toellner, Tracie (Scott) Lind, Rochelle (Patrick) Basche, Matthew Toellner; eight grandchildren, Frank, Carly, Dan, Kayleen, Tim, Valerie, Liz, and Ben; three great-grandchildren, Maddy, Maya, and Steven; as well as his sister, Dolores Melum, and sisters-in-law Linda Bernstein and Marilyn Chapman. In addition to his parents, Vern was preceded in death by his brother, Maynard (Evelyn) Toellner; sisters, Lila (Harris) Cotter, Macel (Earl) Wagner; and brothers-in-law, Julian Melum, Bob Chapman and Richard Chapman. A memorial service for Vern will be held at Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church (125 North Street, Iola) on Saturday, at 11:00 AM. Rev. Greg Haugen will be officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM until the time of service. (Masks optional).