In loving memory of

Vernon Major
June 26, 2010

Vernon LeRoy Major, youngest of six sons was born to Edison Marion Major and Lilly Mae (McMurthery) Major, October 1, 1935, at Circleville, Kansas. His parents moved to the Westboro area. He attended High Bank grade school until 4th grade. He would walk across the field each day to school. He graduated from Westboro High School with the class of 1954.
He served with the National Guard for twenty five years. He retired from the National Guard earning the rank of 1st Sergeant
On February 3, 1957, he was united in marriage to Dixie Lee Freeze at the United Congregational Church in Farragut, Iowa. They lived in the Coin, Shenandoah and Essex area.
During his working days, Vernon was employed by Mt. Arbor Nursery, City of Coin, Eaton's for 17 years, truck driver for Tiemeyer Inc., later having his own trucking business, and retiring due to illness.
Some of his interests included raising hogs, taking trips to Branson, MO, camping, deer hunting and snowmobiling in MN. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Clem, James and Eddie. Those left to honor his memory include wife Dixie of 53 years, daughter Carol and husband Mike of Emerson, Iowa, son Michael and wife Mary Ann of Imogene, Iowa and son Steven and wife Debbie of Shenandoah, Iowa; grandchildren Matthew of Shenandoah, Iowa, Joshua, Independence, KY and Jordan Major of Imogene, Iowa, and Kolton, Keegan and Kameron Wederquist of Emerson, Iowa; brothers Clarence and wife Terry Major of Shenandoah; Don and wife Florence Major of Burlington Junction, MO and sister-in-law Geraldine Major of Creston, Iowa; brother-in-law David Freeze and wife Marjorie of Shenandoah; brother-n-law Eugene Freeze of Henderson, NV and sister-n-law Darlene Kowalke and husband Dennis of Milwaukee, WI , along with other family members and friends.
Vernon passed away peacefully at his home in rural Essex surrounded by his family following a brief illness from cancer. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends but his memory will live on forever.

Tributes

Cindy (Freeze) Sanchez wrote on Mar 10, 2016:

"Dixie, I am so sorry to hear about Vernon - just found out today. I have fond memories of spending time with you both when we visited you out in Iowa and when you came out here. My thoughts and prayers are with you, and I hope you are well."

Helen Tietz wrote on Mar 4, 2012:

"Joanne, Sorry to hear about your son Thomas. Sending sympathy from your HyVee friend Helen Tietz, 2nd floor Meadow Lakes."

Eric Johnson wrote on Mar 1, 2012:

"Dear Amos Family, So sorry for your loss. I just learned of Tom's passing today. Our prayers are with you. I will miss his quick wit and smile."

Mary Madson wrote on Feb 27, 2012:

" Dear Jess & Family My deepest sympathy for your loss of Tom, may God wrap his arms around at this time and comfort you and yours in some small way to get you through.."

Debbie Anderson wrote on Feb 26, 2012:

"Dear Jessica Courtney and Tyler, I am so sad to hear of your recent loss.  May God be with you and lead you to peace in the time ahead."

Sandi Green wrote on Feb 26, 2012:

"Jessica and kids Sue and I are sending our deepest sympathy and prayers. We are so sorry for the loss of your husband and dad. Sandi Green and Sue O''Neil"

Paula Theisen (RCTC family) wrote on Feb 25, 2012:

"To Tom's family, Thank you for sharing your husband and father with RCTC. He made a difference! You are in my thoughts and prayers. To Tom's children, A famous quote from -Albert Einstein "Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children and the younger Generation. For they are us, our bodies are only wilted leaves on the tree of life." - you are the younger Generation that Albert Einstein was referring to... Your dad lives on in you.. Lean on one another, family, faith and friends...  and you will continue to grow strong. Blessings, "

Samantha Howe wrote on Feb 25, 2012:

"Jessica, Courtney, and Tyler - The world has lost a great man this week. I was very upset to hear about Tom''s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your loved ones. I know that I hadn''t seen a whole lot of Tom in the last couple of years but I thought of him constantly. Being his god daughter, I always prayed for all of you and kept you in my thoughts. I have always had Tom in my life and I have lots of great memories. Did you know that he gave me my first and only motorcycle ride?? Ever since I have always played with the thought of getting one. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you and your family. Samantha Howe"

Kay Villarreal wrote on Feb 25, 2012:

"So very sorry for your loss....he will be missed! Love you all!!"

Tim Jones wrote on Feb 25, 2012:

"To the family of Tom Amos I finally had the time to really stop and thing about what to say, Tom was a friend that I really enjoyed getting to know, he was a hard working guy and one that it was fun to have around. Thanks for letting me have this time to get to know you and work with you. This just does not seem to be enough but its all I can come up with, thanks Tom. TJ"

Wayne & Katie Smisek wrote on Feb 25, 2012:

"Jessica & family, We are so sorry for your loss! The last time I seen Tom was at mothers 97th birthday party, had a very nice chat with him at the time not realizing that it would be the last time I would see him. Life sure has its ups and downs and this is certainly a real downer! The only way now is up! We will keep you all in our prayers."

John and Dolores Port wrote on Feb 25, 2012:

"Dear Jessica, Courtney and Tyler: We were so saddened to hear of Tom's passing.  If there is anything we can do for you and your family, please do not hesitate to ask.  We send our love and condolences to you and want you to know we are thinking of you and your family."

Cama Kafka wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"I went to high school with Tom and he was a great guy.  Thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard time.."

Spanish 1 class @ Century wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"Familia Amos y Courtney, Te queremos mucho Courtney!!!  Estamos tristes contigo.  We love you and are thinking of you."

Lis Danielson wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"Jessica and family, No words can express my sorrows for you. Although I can not take the pain away, know that I will be praying for the pain to subside and the happy memories to stay. All of my love, Lis."

Jessica, Courtney & Tyler wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May God guide you and comfort you during this healing time. Robyn Davis Kellogg Middle School "

Lyla, Katy & Peter Harmon wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"We are thinking of you!  We are sorry for your loss!"

Terri Littlejohn wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"Jessica, I am so sorry to hear of your loss.  Please accept my deepest sympathy for you and your kids. Terri"

Tina Burzette wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"There are no words that can take away the pain, but live within your happy memory. Smile when you think of him and celebrate your time with him. I know his innocent smile will be missed. Sending prayers and love to all Tom's family."

Diane Enger wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"Dear Jessica, Courtney and Tyler, I was so sad to hear of your loss.  I've been praying for you every day.  I don't know what else to say except I will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Diane Enger, Tyler's music teacher "

Ramona L. Taylor wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"To the Amos Family: Tom was a wonderful person, always smiling and funny. He would always step up and help without a second thought. He will be missed here at RCTC. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Ramona Taylor "

James Scott wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"I first got to know Tom when he painted the walls in the financial aid office. We used to joke back and forth about how strong those paint fumes were and laugh about it. He had a great sense of humor. I would run into Tom in the hallways and in areas where he happen to be working and he was always upbeat and positive. I would usually smile after a few words with him because he just made you feel good about what ever was going on. Tom was always building something, I told him once "Tom you are the only person I ever see on campus doing any actual physical work". He just looked at me with that wide grin and  just kind of smiled to himself. I will miss Tom he was one of those down to earth people who made it fun to come to work. You could just pass Tom in the hallway exchange words and his quick wit would put a smile on your face making your day a little better. One subject he did not joke about was his family, it was obvious he was very proud of his family and deeply loved his wife and children. Yes I will miss Tom, from time to time as I take a moment to admire how well Tom painted our offices I will think of Tom and smile and my day will be a little bit better ."

Jerry Burns and Family wrote on Feb 24, 2012:

"Deepest sympathy on the loss of our dear cousin Tom.  He will be missed.  God bless you all in this time of sorrow."

Rebecca Kruetzfeldt wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"To the family of Tom, I'm so sorry for your loss.  I have had the pleasure of working with Tom for the past few years.  Although I didn't work closely with him, I did get a chance to joke around with him when the time allowed.  I will always remember his happy and upbeat personality.  He will be missed here at RCTC, it will not be the same without his smiling face here!  My deepest sympathy to his wife and especially his kids.  He will always be with you."

Mary and Jim gobin wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica, Tyler and Courtney So sorry for the loss of Tom.  I will always remember when we were neightbors and i had to run over to change the kid''''s diapers.  The trip to Florida and many more memories.  Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Jim, Mary, amanda and Annie gobin"

Ciara Carter wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"To the Amos Family, Tom was one of the greatest members of our team at RCTC. Even though we did not work in the same area Tom treated me like I was one of the clan! I enjoyed his witty humor and his funny faces he would make passing by, just to put a smile on my face. He will be greatly miss, and my heart, thoughts and prayers go out to all of you!"

Leslie Pingree wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica, My heart is so heavy to hear of Tom''s passing.  There really aren''t words, are there?  Sending love, good wishes, and prayers to you, your children, and Tom''s family.  Take comfort that even this can heal with time. Leslie"

Jorrie Johnson wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Dear Jessica, Courtney and Tyler, You are all in my prayers. Let God take your hand and walk you through the days ahead. He is with you. Trust in him. Much love, Jorrie, Tiffany, Will and Calvin "

Dera Hanson wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"I worked with Tom at RCTC.  He painted our offices and was very easy going, flexible and efficient.  I like that in a person.  He was very easy to get along with.  I know will we all miss seeing him in the halls."

Roanna Vine wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica..I was just thinking of you yesterday,I''m not sure why.Then I read that Tom had passed away. I am so very sorry. He was much too young. I feel really bad for you and the kids and his other friends and family. It is so tragic. I never met him ,but I remember you talking about him and I knew you when you were engaged to be married ect.... I am and will continue to pray for your eventual peace and for the difficult future for you and your children. May God give all of you strength. May you be surrounded with the love and support of others who care for you and by the love of God.  In deepest sympathy...Roanna"

Ruth Reese wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Tom Amos Family Our Dear Tom-- This is a poem just for you Our friend, a part of our family too. You made us laugh-always had a joke for us A gentle giant, a sweetheart of a man you could trust. You''d deer hunt with us years ago You''d be in the house- I''d shout "there goes a doe". Tom would just smile and let you know the video game was more important just leave me alone. I don''t want to be sad for you today I want to remember the fun and your loving ways. You were the coolest and laid back guy Couldn''t get you mad not matter how hard we tried. You''d lend a had - give a hug too Always there kind & gentle-what to do. Tom, in our hearts you were the best Now it''s time for you to rest. Our sweet and fun guy- Goodbye Couldn''t get mad at you if I tried. I love you- Will miss you my kindly man too. Keep Ike and Darrell in line whatever you do. Love always, Ruth Reese & Family"

Patty Stevens wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica and family, I am so terribly sorry for your loss...my heart just aches for you, Courtney and Tyler.  I worked at RCTC and got to know Tom....he was an awesome person...an asset to RCTC and will be sadly missed by all! Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy. Patty and Gary Stevens"

Barb Mollberg wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"To Tom's Family, My sincere condolences.  I just learned about this sad, sad news.  Can hardly believe it ... how can this be?   Tom made the world a brighter place. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Barb Mollberg"

June Meitzner wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"To the Amos Family I am so sorry for your loss.  I just wanted to let you know that Tom will be greatly missed out here at RCTC. Tom was always smiling and willing to help out.  Tom painted my office red and did not even complain about how many coats he had to do to make it look perfect.  I could always count on him whether it was painting our office area or purchasing items for the Maintenance Dept.  I will miss his smile!"

Jasmina Habibovic wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica and family, so sorry for your loss. Deepest sympathy to you and the family, Jasmina Habibovic."

missy hagen wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"My heartfelt condolences jessica -Tom was a pleasure to have around RCTC.  he spoke of you and the kids freely and proudly.  Always willing to go the extra mile with no complaint.  He will be missed.   Missy Hagen "

Pat Senjem wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"My Beloved Jessica, Courtney and Tyler,   Words simply cannot define the sadness and overwhelming sympathy I have. You are in my thoughts and prayers constantly since I learned of Tom's passing. Please know there are countless friends who are willing to support you in this time of loss. With much love, prayers, hugs and wishes for comfort to you all. Pat"

Cris Kellas wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica & Family, I worked with Tom at RCTC. What a great guy so smart,funny and very kind. We will miss him greatly. My deepest sympathy to your family."

Janie and Don Hass wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"To the Amos Family: Tom was a bit of a hero to our daughter, Kristen, when a few years back she found herself in a pretty deep ditch over in the NE part of town and since Donnie was busy, Tom drove over from the Doyle Connor Shop, pulled Krissy's car out of the ditch, and calmed a pretty histerical 17 yr old down.  He was also a great fishing partner to Donnie and Patrick on several spring fishing trips over the last several years.  We will miss his calm demeanor and beautiful smile very much.  Our prayers are with you.    Love, Janie and Don Hass and family"

Vonnie Pizel wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"So sorry!     All my love!              Von"

Diane and Bob Blackwell wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica and family, We are so sorry to hear of your families loss.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.  May God be with you and give you comfort during this time.   Diane and Bob"

Sheri Opem wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"My thoughts and many prayers are with you all during this painful loss...keep the faith and find comfort in the Lord...God bless you all. ~Sheri"

Diane Moyer wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica,     I am so saddened to hear of Tom''s death. Please know that you and the children are surrounded by many who love you dearly and will be there to comfort you in the days ahead.      My love and prayers,      Diane"

Beth Nienow wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Jessica, Courtney, and Tyler, You are all in my thoughts and prayers.  I am so sorry for your loss. Beth"

Alex Hansen (Strain) wrote on Feb 23, 2012:

"Theresa and family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Thinking of all of you."

Tina Miller wrote on Feb 22, 2012:

"Jessica, Courtney and Tyler, My thoughts and prayers are with you. Deepest sympathy to all of Tom's family. Your former neighbor, Tina Miller"

Kirk and Ginny Boyum wrote on Feb 22, 2012:

"Jessica and family, Our heart aches for your loss.  Tom was a wonderful person and will be missed.  You are in our prayers."

Jean Musgjerd wrote on Feb 22, 2012:

"My heart goes out to your family.  Amos always was the sunshine I was looking for in any day.  I will miss his spirit and heart in the RCTC hallways."

Jody (Welty) Pedersen wrote on Jul 2, 2010:

"Carol and family, I was so sorry to hear of your father's passing. Your family is in my prayers."

Judy and Tommy Graham wrote on Jun 30, 2010:

"To Vernon's family we send our sympathy and prayers. Tommy & Judy Graham"

Vivian Gregory wrote on Jun 30, 2010:

"Dixie, we are so sorry for your loss. We are unable to attend the visitation or funeral, but will be sending a card containing a memorial check to your home. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Vivian and Bob"

Robert and Robin Lynn and Family wrote on Jun 30, 2010:

"Dixie and Family, Our thoughts and Prayers are with you at this time of your Loss. Bob and Robin (Anderson)Lynn and Family "

Alan & Mari Eddy wrote on Jun 29, 2010:

"Our prayers and thoughts are with you all."

Susan McClurg wrote on Jun 28, 2010:

"I am so sorry to hear of Vernon's passing, thoughts & prayers with you all."

Kathy Temme wrote on Jun 28, 2010:

"My thoughts are with you and your family. Lots of good memories in Shenandoah. Kathy & jim"