Vernon Lambert

A man’s worth, often times, is not so much found in the amount of money he made, the type of car he drove, or the house he lived in. But rather, a man’s worth can be valued in such a way, that it leaves a legacy, and a forever imprint on the heart’s of all those who knew, and loved him. And Vernon Bert Lambert was such a man.

The son of Floyd and Leta Lambert, Vernon was born on August 10, 1927 in Plainwell, Michigan, along the Kalamazoo River in Allegan County. Calvin Coolidge was President of the United States and Charles Lindbergh made his infamous, nonstop transatlantic flight. Life in Plainwell was pretty simple for the Lambert household, where Vernon was just one of 12 children in all. Everyone in the Lambert home was expected to pitch in and help with the chores, farming duties, and work hard together in order to make ends meet for such a large family. Vernon and his siblings spent many summer days in the fields as well as at the Plainwell Fairgounds. And so typical of young boys, Vernon developed a love for baseball that continued throughout his life.

Faith and community was also an important part of Vernon’s upbringing, and it instilled in him great faith and a deep, abiding love for his Lord. He simply lived by the saying, “love never fails“. And Vernon was a simple man, who did not expect anything from anyone. He took joy in giving, rather than receiving, and always put others before himself. A kind, patient, and gentle soul, Vernon always found good in everyone he met. He truly exemplified a man of God, and generously shared the wealth of his heart with others.

A hard and dedicated worker, Vernon was a loving husband to his wife, Leona, and their three children, Linda, Janel and Christopher. He provided for his family with the fruits of his labor on their 40 acre farm, where he grew and harvested hay. Vernon faithfully tended daily to his many horses, cattle, chickens and goats, all of which were named, over the years, by his beloved Leona! Vernon loved to eat and thoroughly enjoyed Leona’s home cooked meals and baking.

But life was not always about all work and no play. Vernon loved to tinker around the garage and barn, always finding something to fix. His love for baseball continued to grow and he became one of the biggest Detroit Tiger’s fans. Vernon also could be found reading, and he took time for reflection by feeding and watching the birds, going for long walks, and walking with his dogs.

Vernon Lambert left a forever imprint on the heart’s of all those who knew, and loved him. Truly a man of God, Vernon found his worth in the comfort of his faith, and lived his life as a reflection of Jesus. Life for those Vernon loved will not be the same. He will be sorely missed, but he leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived, and loved. He was a true inspiration by all who knew him.

Vernon Bert Lambert, age 81, of Kalamazoo, went to be with his Lord on December 10, 2008. Memorial services will be celebrated Monday, December 15, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the Oshtemo United Methodist Church with a luncheon to follow the service in the church hall. Following the luncheon, burial will take place at 1:30 PM in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. He was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings. Vernon is survived by his wife of 62 years, Leona; three children: Linda (David) Couch of Kalamazoo, Janel Salisbury of Constantine, and Christopher (Julie) Lambert of Kalamazoo; eleven grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; three siblings: Olive Karony of CA, Frank (Pat) Lambert of Kalamazoo, and Philip Lambert of WA; sister-in-law, Ann Lambert of Mattawan; and many nieces and nephews. Please visit Vernon’s personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can archive a favorite memory or photo, sign his online guest book, or make a memorial contribution to the charity of your choice. Life Story Funeral Homes, Betzler – Kalamazoo, 375-2900. We all lost a great man today.