Vernon Charles Hlavac

Vernon Hlavac, 79, of Bemidji, MN passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at his home with family by his side.

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 4, 2024 at Grace Free Lutheran Church, Bagley. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m., Sunday, November 3, 2024 at the Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home, Bemidji and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in the Bagley City Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the Irvin Blix Post 16.

Vernon Hlavac was born November 23, 1944 in Yankton, SD to William and Lillian (Manas) Hlavac. He grew up in South Dakota and attended Tabor High School where he played football, basketball, and ran track and field. After graduating he enlisted in the Air Force and proudly served for 22 years. Vernon married Gladys, his beloved wife of 59 years, on July 31, 1965. Vern and Gladys had 3 sons, Tim, Mike and David. Vern had a zest for life and enjoyed many outdoor activities. He was an avid hunter of MN deer and South Dakota pheasant. He especially enjoyed hunting with his sons and dog Molly. The family took many vacations over the years with fishing at Lake of the Woods being one of the favorites. Another of Vern’s hobbies was woodworking. There are beautiful pieces of his craftmanship in the homes of many of his family. Vern was a perfectionist as anyone who has been to their home and seen his yard will know, it is a work of art. After retirement Vern got his pilot license and enjoyed trips to Branson, Yankton, and fly in breakfasts. Vern and Gladys spent many years traveling the country until finally becoming snowbirds in Yuma, AZ. Vern was a very social person and made many lifelong friends wherever they went. Vern was very giving and was always ready to lend a hand when needed.

Vern is survived by his wife Gladys; sons, Tim (Lynda), Mike and David (Lisa); five grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; sister, Janene; sisters-in-law, Eva and Janet and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lillian; in-law, Lloyd and Elsie LaFontaine; brother, Duane; grandson, Joshua and great-granddaughter, Hazel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Joe Lueken Cancer Center.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vernon Charles Hlavac, please visit our floral store.