Verlon Cress 1939-2023

Verlon Ralph Cress, 83, of Delia, was born July 31, 1939, in Horton to Joseph and Geneva (Christ) Cress. Verlon passed away at his home on the morning of July 20, 2023, with his loving wife by his side.

Verlon married the love of his life, Judy F. Spetter, on June 19, 1967. They just celebrated 56 years of marriage.

He was preceded in death by his parents and identical twin brother, Vernon J. Cress.

He is survived by his wife; daughters Sharlene (Shawn) Cooper, Topeka, Tabetha (Mike) Smith, Carbondale, Sarah (Ted) Perez, Topeka, Autumn (John) Carter, Savannah, Ga., Jennifer Cress, Holton, Kristina Cress, Topeka, and Nellie Cress, of the home; his sons Josh (Molly) Robb, Delia, and Brian Cress, Washington State; his foster sons Aaron (Sarah) Pifer, Rossville, and Julio (Ashley) Enriquez, Topeka; and numerous grandkids, great-grandkids and his brother, Donald (Barbara) Cress, Spivey.

Verlon was drafted into the U.S. Army and served two years. After release from the Army he worked for Massey Ferguson for several years until he began his career with KPL/Westar at Jeffrey Energy Center in 1979, where he worked until his retirement.

Verlon served on the Delia Volunteer Fire Department and as a Delia city councilman.

Verlon loved kids. All kids. And kids loved him. He loved playing with the grandkids, pulling them behind the lawnmower in a wagon. Every kid in town knew where they could go to get their bicycles fixed if they broke or had a flat tire. He always kept spare tire tubes of different sizes on hand to accommodate. The yard was always full of kids even after his own kids were gone.

Verlon’s celebration of life will be held at the Delia Grade School from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23.

Donations may be made to Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, 900 Cooper St., Jackson, MI 49202; or the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

His wings were ready but we were not. He will be forever in our hearts.

(PAID OBITUARY)