Vernon F. Katen

Vernon F. Katen - Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 in Petaluma with his loving family by his side after a short battle with lung cancer. Born on July 12, 1925 in Petaluma to Rose and Frank Katen. Friends and family are invited to attend the Funeral Liturgy, Saturday, March 1, 2008 at 11:30 AM at the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, 850 Keokuk St., Petaluma, CA. A Visitation will be held after 9:00 AM on Saturday. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran St., Petaluma, CA 94952. Entombment: Calvary Cemetery, Petaluma. Vernon enlisted in the US Navy in 1943 during WWII. He toured as a gunner and was stationed in the Philippines prior to his honorable discharge in 1945. On Jan. 24, 1948, Vernon married Angie Cerini and together they enjoyed 60 years of marriage. Loving to dance, Vernon and Angie spent a lot of time on the dance floor. A member of the Teamster's Union Local #624, he worked as a truck driver for H. Pini Co., of Novato and several other feed mills. A real "Mr. Fix-It,""" Vernon could fix or build anything, even building his own BBQ. With the BBQ, he was able to enjoy many friend and family get-togethers as well as display his ability to play the accordion, harmonica and guitar. Many great times were also spent camping, traveling and fishing with family and friends. As members of the Golden Rooster Camping Club, Vernon and Angie thoroughly enjoyed the club-playing cards and visiting with their friends. He also taught his children and grandchildren everything there was to know about camping and fishing. He was an active member of the Petaluma Lodge #901 B.P.O.Elks, Petaluma Moose Lodge, Penngrove Volunteer Fire Dept., SIRS #100, and the Petaluma Holy Ghost Society. The family would like give special thanks to Hospice of Petaluma for their kindness and caring. ""