Vern Birmingham, age 69, entered into rest on December 18, 2012. Vern was a fun-loving, strong, kind hearted family man and there wasn’t a soul who crossed his path that didn’t love him. He was known for his generosity, wisdom, and his ability to always make us laugh. Vern loved playing country music and played lead guitar for the local Manteca band El Segundo Wildcats with Frankie Thompson and Ron Farmer for many years.

He was survived by his wife Della Birmingham, his sole mate of 38 years. His five daughters, Audrey Martins (Rob), Suzanne Flores (Steve), Catherine Betts, Rebecca Jolly (John), Tara Smith (Jayson). His sisters Mary Rasmussen (Rod), Betty Cochran, and sister-in-law Wilma Birmingham. His grandchildren, Joseph Martins (Amanda), Jamie Pooley (Mike), Michael Flores, Hayley Hicks, Syerra and Nicole Smyth, Jennifer and Jessica Betts, Rikki, Karah and Joseph Ferretti. His four great grandchildren, Nathan, Michael III, Matthew and Joseph Jr. (JJ), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and many others who thought of him as their Dad as well.

A man like Vern leaves his mark in the world through

the love and the impressions that he has made on all who knew and loved him. When a man so special as he, the loss is never easy, but what stays with you is that much stronger, that much more lasting and loving-knowing he loved you and you love him that will last for eternity. Thank you for being the greatest man in our lives. We love you and will honor you until we meet again.

A Celebration of life will be held at 251 Oak Street, Manteca on Saturday, December 22 at 3pm. Condolences may be sent to 407 Eva Drive, Manteca, CA 95336.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin

Thursday, December 20, 2012