Visitation for Vernon R. Cook, 82, of Oacoma, SD will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at the Hickey Funeral Chapel in Chamberlain, SD.  Burial with military honors will be 3:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024 in the Black Hills National Cemetery at Sturgis, SD.

Vernon Roy Cook was born October 11, 1941 to Lyle and Eileen (Schlagel) Cook at Sioux Falls, SD.  He was raised and attended school in the Sioux Falls area.

In 1959, Vernon enlisted in the U.S. Army.  He served during the Vietnam War and later was instrumental in mobilizing the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Lewis McCord, WA.  Vernon was extremely proud of being part of the first graduating class of the Green Berets and during the ceremony his beret was presented to him by President John F. Kennedy.  Military was always a large part of his entire life.

He had jobs working as a Deputy Sheriff, a recruiter for National College, and worked for the Veterans Administration in Sioux Falls and lastly in Wyoming.

Vernon enjoyed horses and collecting horse memorabilia.  He loved to learn to play musical instruments including the guitar and fiddle.

Vernon passed away on December 21, 2023 at home in Oacoma, SD.  He is survived by a sister Joni Jennings of MN; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death by his parents, brothers Richard, and Lyle "Bo"; and a sister Virginia "Ginny" Anderson.