June 19, 1927 - Nov. 13 2013

Vernie was born in London, Minn., to Niels and Ebba Nileson and spent his first few years living on farms in North Dakota, before moving to Harrison, Idaho.

Although Vernie made his home in Spokane Valley for 54 years he never gave up his love for North Idaho and his family. Growing up around Harrison and Carlin Bay he was always ready when his family and friends gathered at Carlin Bay for their weekend camping trips.

Vern and Wanda Wigginton married in March 1967. After a tour in the Marines and various jobs he went to work for Boge’s Bakery until retirement in 1984. Vernie loved to travel with Wanda to the warm south in the winter where he spent many hours in the desert exploring. He loved rock hounding and working in his shop. Making bowls out of unique wood he would bring home.

Proceeded in his death by his parents, two brothers, three sisters and his first wife, Hollis and their daughter, Tanya. Survived by his wife, Wanda; grandchildren, Toni Lagoy of Smelterville, Idaho, Vernie and Jeff Dittner also of Smelterville; nieces and nephews and great-grandchildren.

Vern was laid to rest next to his daughter, Tanya in Pines Cemetery in Spokane Valley, Wash.