Vernon Nix

Vernon Nix Jr., 89, passed away January 24, 2017 surrounded by his family. He was born June 6, 1927 in Mitchell, NE to Vernon and Hazel (Petsch) Nix. He fought in WWII as a gunman in the bombing of Pearl Harbor and was present on the USS Idaho, during the initial phase of the signing of the terms of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945. Vernon was a life member of VFW post 15052. He was a baker by trade, but also worked as a policeman, bartender, and oil field worker. Later in life Vernon learned how to dance. He loved to polka and would go to The Beacon Club weekly. He had a passion for raising beautiful gardens. Horses were very much a part of his life, running in the local chariot races. Vernon was married in 1948 and later divorced. Vernon's two sons preceded him in death, Rance and Vernon Nix II who was killed in the Vietnam war. Also preceding him in death are his parents and sister, Madeline Osgood. Vernon is survived by a sister Bette Porter of Billings, MT and brother Fred of Casper, grandson Vernon Nix-Jackson III and several nieces and nephews. At Vernon's request there will be no services but a rousing poker game will be held in his honor. His ashes will be scattered with his parents' ashes at a later date by family. Donations made to Central Wyoming Hospice, 319 S. Wilson, Casper, Wyoming would be appreciated.