Verlan Wilford Mussmann, 92, known as Verlie, died on Christmas Day at Parkview Haven Nursing Home in Deshler. He was born on Aug. 15, 1932, to Ben and Edna Mussmann on the family farm near Ruskin. Verlie attended country school until the 8th grade and later received an honorary high school diploma from the military.
Verlie was the sixth of 12 children. His brothers were: Orlin, Wilbur and Berwyn and sisters were: Hildreth, Norma, Wilma, Claris, Iona, Lucille, Lila and Loretta.
Verlie married Janette Houtwed on Jan. 24, 1953, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Ruskin. They had one child, David.
Verlie was drafted into the Army in 1952 and completed boot camp at Ft. Riley, Kansas. He then attended Leadership School, which allowed him to stay stateside until the birth of his son. During this time, the Korean Armistice was signed, which allowed him to avoid combat. Verlie was deployed to Korea and served in the motor pool as a mechanic and truck driver. After fulfilling his time in Korea, he was stationed in Hawaii until his honorable discharge, having reached the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Verlie began his career working for various farmers, driving a gravel truck and joining a harvest crew. In the early 1960s, he and Janette bought a farm, where they raised crops, cattle and pigs. In 1998, Verlie semi-retired when they moved to York, later relocating to Hebron to be closer to their son. A great passion of his was attending auctions, where he collected numerous treasures. Verlie was also proud to serve as a squad leader at services and veteran events. He and Janette enjoyed traveling, singing duets and spending time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In 2010, Verlie suffered a stroke that left him with the loss of use on his left side. He lived at Courtyard Terrace in Hebron and later at Parkview Haven in Deshler. Verlie enjoyed activities such as putting puzzles together, playing bingo and cards, and playing horse races.
Verlie is survived by his son, David of Ruskin; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; brother, Berwyn of Eden, Idaho; sisters, Lucille Nelson of Lincoln, and Iona Biltoft of Ruskin.
Verlie was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Janette, with whom he shared 66 years of marriage; and his siblings Orlin, Wilbur, Hildreth, Norma, Wilma, Claris, Lila and Loretta.
His funeral will be held at 11 a.m.,on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at Abiding Word Church in Deshler with Pastor Ken Hart officiating. Full military honors will be following the service.
Private family inurnment will be at Spring Creek Cemetery near Ruskin.
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