The Life of VERNARD WALTER ALMS
My life began with my birth in Benedict, NE, in the house my father built. While farm life through the 30’s was challenging, my brothers Len, Ray, and I made our own fun riding pigs, pulling pranks, and gathering for Sunday dinners at grandparents. My faith began with family devotions and developed in the 12 years of Lutheran parochial schools.
After business school in Omaha, I began working for Sargent Feed in Des Moines, where I met my future bride, Lyla Thorpe. We began our family and settled in Des Moines, where I began my 30-year career in sales with International Harvester. In 1977, I retired to continue farming in Grimes. After a short battle with lung cancer I am now in the arms of my Savior Jesus Christ, and I’m rejoicing with those preceding me: wife Lyla, daughter Judy Rittgers, siblings Esther, Ray, and Len, parents Henry and Minnie, along with other family and friends.
Those I leave behind knowing I will see them again, are my son Steve (Debbie) Alms of Burnsville, MN; my daughter Sherry (Jeff) Simpson of Johnston; grandchildren Steve (Sherilyn) Rittgers, Dave (Cristi) Rittgers, Stephanie (Brent) Nordstrom, Meridith (Rod) Hicks, and Matt (Marisa) Simpson; and ten great-grandchildren.
I wish to thank those who touched my life at McAuley Terrace and Mercy Hospice, with special thanks to Larry and Dr. Hawk. In lieu of flowers, I’d like you to consider a gift to support any of my favorite charities: Hope Ministries, Meredith Drive Reformed Church, or Salvation Army, all of Des Moines.
Lastly, please gather to celebrate and share with my family in a short Memorial Service, followed by lunch and visitation, at Meredith Drive Reformed Church, Tuesday, April 2, at 11:00 a.m. Officiating are Pastors Jane Brown and Matt Simpson.