Vernon Dewey Bailey

Vernon Dewey Bailey passed away at home on Monday, May 11, 2009 after a courageous battle with bone cancer. Vern was born on July 14, 1952 in Polson, the son of Dean and Lovie Bailey. He attended Polson schools, graduating in 1971. While in school, he as an active member of 4H, Future Farmers of America and was an accomplished wrestler. On June 4, 1977, he married the love of his life, Christine Andersen and to this union, two sons were born, Andy and Greg. He felt his boys were his greatest accomplishment and was very proud of them. Vern worked on the Bailey farm, at Marvin's Mobil, was manager at Polson Stove Shop building Earth Stoves, Castlio Well Drilling, and finally at Beacon Tire Center for 18 years. He was an avid welder and built many decks, ramps and awnings for many people around Polson. He loved the outdoors, fishing and hunting with his sons, brothers, Howard and Mark, and his friends. He lived his whole life in Montana and enjoyed all it had to offer. He was just where he wanted to be. Vern cherished his large family and their many get-togethers, which are always full of fun and good food. He was always available to help his family and friends when needed. In return, his family has pitched in to help Vern and Chris in any way they could since Vern's illness. Vern lived a life that was truly an inspiration. His kind and thoughtful ways, his great sense of humor and his never ending positive attitude have left a lasting impression on all who were blessed to know him. Chris said no matter what kind of day Vern had, he always came to the door whistling. Vern's pockets may not have been lined with gold, but the love of family and friends certainly made him a rich man. He was preceded in death by his father, Dean, his little sister, Doral, a nephew, Jamie, grandparents, Homer and Flora Bailey and George and Nora Kelly. Survivors include his mother, Lovie Bailey: his loving wife, Christine: sons, Andy and Greg: nine brothers and sisters, Jan (Duane) Olsen, Jaquy (Kai) Christensen, Jim (Bev) Bailey, Donna (Jerry) Benson, Walt (Kelly) Bailey, Carolyn Bailey, Russell (Aileen) Bailey, Todd (Helen) Bailey, Randi Bailey (Don Garcia): Chris's parents, Howard and Joan Anderson: brother-in-law, Mark Anderson: sister-in-law, Audrey Anderson, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends all whom loved him dearly. A visitation will be held at the Grogan Funeral Home, Polson on Friday, May 15, from 9am ' 8pm. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 11:00am at the Linderman Gym in Polson. A reception will follow at the Valley View Clubhouse. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation in Vern's name to Camp Mak-A-Dream, c/o Children's Oncology Camp Foundation, PO Box 1450, Missoula, MT 59806 or to a children's charity of one's choice. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com. Grogan Funeral Home, Polson is assisting the family.
Read Vernon Bailey's Obituary and Guestbook.