Vernon L. Stokes, age 82, of rural Stanton County, Kansas, passed from this life to the Lord’s side on September 17, 2022, at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City, Kansas. He was born September 5, 1940, in Alamosa, Colorado, the son of Harold R. and Leona May (Curliss) Stokes.

Vernon graduated from Syracuse High School in Syracuse, Kansas, and then attended Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, and also Teacher’s College of South Dakota. Vernon taught school for several years in South Dakota. He was a man of many talents including being a western artist, florist and interior decorator. He was also talented in training horses and managed restaurants and antique stores. Vernon enjoyed reading his Bible and listening to classical music. His life also included marriages to Coralee Allen and Vicky Nodestein.

Vernon is survived by his sister, Velma Klassen; daughter, Suzanne Stokes Dahl and husband Chris; grandson, Andrew Dahl; and numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends who enjoyed his stories.

Vernon is preceded in death by his parents, Harold R. Stokes in 1994, and Leona May (Curliss) Stokes Nichols in 2001; and brother, Raymond L. Stokes in 2019.

Graveside service will be Thursday, September 22, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Stanton County Cemetery with Pastor David Phillips officiating. Arrangements are in care of Garnand Funeral Home, PO Box 715, Johnson, KS 67855. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.