Vernon Norman Sutherland, 83, peacefully went home to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 7, 2026. His family rejoices in the assurance that he is now in Heaven, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him and hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Vernon was born on October 13, 1942, and spent his life doing what he loved most: serving God, loving his family, and working the land. A lifelong farmer, Vernon possessed a work ethic that was second to none. Before starting his own dairy operation, he worked for Mid-American Dairymen Incorporated. He later devoted many years to milking cows on the family farm, where he built not only a livelihood but a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and faith.

Throughout his life, Vernon had a special love for animals. He enjoyed raising Quarter Horses in his younger years and, more recently, raising Angus beef cattle and training Border Collies. There was rarely a day when he wasn’t tending to something on the farm, fixing equipment, working cattle, or caring for the animals he loved. If something was broken, Vernon could usually find a way to fix it. His hands were strong from years of labor, but his heart was even stronger.

Vernon loved visiting with neighbors and friends who stopped by, and he always greeted people with a smile. He was the kind of man who quietly helped others without expecting anything in return. Whether someone needed a hand, a tool, advice, or simply encouragement, Vernon was always willing to help.

Above all else, Vernon loved the Lord. His faith in Jesus Christ was unwavering and served as the foundation of his life. He faithfully passed that faith on to his children and grandchildren through both his words and his example. He eagerly anticipated the return of God in the Rapture and often spoke with excitement about that glorious day. The promises of Scripture were real to him, and he lived each day with the blessed hope of Christ’s return.

One of Vernon’s most treasured family traditions took place every Christmas. As the family gathered together, he would read the story of the birth of Jesus, ensuring that the true meaning of Christmas remained at the center of the celebration. He loved the Christmas season, family gatherings, birthdays, and holidays spent around the table with those he loved most.

Vernon also enjoyed some simple pleasures in life. He loved homemade ice cream, lemon meringue pie, International tractors, and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs. Yet nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family.
Vernon was a loving husband, and father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend. He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his wisdom, his stories, his laughter, and the example of a life well lived.

He is survived by his wife, Katrina Sutherland; his son, Brian Sutherland and wife Kelly Sutherland; granddaughters Lexie Jamison and husband Jonathan, and Lindy Sutherland; his daughter, Marquita Draper and husband Tim Draper; and grandsons Logan Draper and Landon Draper.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Mylene Sutherland, and his brother and sister-in-law, Kenny and Sammy Sutherland.

While our hearts grieve the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, and friend, we find comfort in knowing that Vernon is now resting in the presence of his Lord and Savior, awaiting that glorious day when the trumpet sounds and God’s children are called home. His legacy of faith, hard work, kindness, and love will continue to live on through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.”
2 Timothy 4:7-8