Vern's wish for his daughter.

At only 49 years old, a loving husband and father was killed in a tragic accident on Sunday, July 19th, 2015. Vern leaves behind his wife, Gina, and three children. The people who knew Vern share their stories of how kind, selfless, and generous he was. His tireless support, encouragement, and assistance to friends and strangers, especially through tough times, is a recurring theme of his life. With a smile and a kindness that resonated from his soul, he lifted the spirits of everyone around him. As a mechanic at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, he made sure the rides were working for everyone to enjoy – even his work involved making others smile. He selflessly served our country in the U.S. Army – his entire life was service to others…

Vern, his wife Gina, and their family were born and raised here, and his death has rocked our community. My name is Jill and I have known Vern and Gina for more than 25 years; my heart is breaking for their family.

As their friend, I am asking our community to please come together to help. The family was struggling to afford college for their youngest daughter, who wants very much to finish her degree and become a Physician’s Assistant. Cherina is set to start CSU Monterey in August. While there is so much I would like to ask for to help such an incredible family who is reeling from this unbelievable loss, I am asking for your help in providing the financial assistance to keep their daughter, Cherina, in college – Vern’s wish for his daughter. This is a photo of Vern with his daughter, Cherina. Thank you, in advance, for your thoughtfulness and generosity in helping with any amount you can.