Vernon Everett Renner, born July 15, 1930, died peacefully on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the age of 94.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents Marion and Everett Renner, his son Craig Everett Renner, his first wife Patricia Jean Renner, his second, Kathryn Lindbloom and most recently his beloved cat, Sebastian.

Vern is survived by his brother Robert Renner, his children Brent Renner, Melanie Renner-Troini (John Troini), grandchildren Allison Troini and Giovanni Troini; Julie Ingber (Jonathan Ingber), grandchildren Chelsea Ingber and Kyle Ingber; and Amy Miller (Brian Miller), grandchildren Avery Miller and Tatum Miller.

Vern was born in Weirton, West Virginia, and spent most of his youth in Concord, California before meeting and marrying Patricia Jean Waugaman. Vern and Patricia raised their five children in San Jose California.

Vern had many distinguished careers throughout his life. After completing college at University of the Pacific, he served in the Marines as Military Police during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, Vern worked as a Patrol Officer in East Palo Alto, a Juvenile Probation Officer, a Marriage Counselor and more. While balancing a large family and his career, he also achieved a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice at San Jose State University. His rise through the ranks of law enforcement included roles as the Director of Criminal Justice and Resources, for three different counties, and he became the Director of the San Jose Police Academy. For his later career, Vern worked as an Instructor at Evergreen College, helping to form their police academy while teaching range and criminal justice courses.

Vern was a lifelong learner, discovering a deep passion for pleasure reading later in life. He also enjoyed digging for treasures at second hand stores, visiting the library and Costco. He kept busy with memberships in Kiwanis, Lions Club and some local theater groups. Vern was known for his storytelling and occasional retelling of family history. Vern's emails and letters were legendary. He also liked to be out and about town and his family often heard from others that he was such a friendly guy.

Pet cats were a definite highlight in Vern's life, and he often adorned birthday cards and emails with their signatures. If you asked for an update on how he was doing, the cats always got more airtime.

Vern's family will miss his voicemails that began with "Hello, this is your father," in case we failed to recognize his voice. We would like to picture him now, surrounded by his herd of cats, fighting for time to sit with him. Rest in peace Vern.

To honor Vern's memory, please donate to Humane Society Silicon Valley

Email notification of gift, if interested, amy.patricia.miller@gmail.com Amy Miller