Vernon Koss, of Deerbrook, died Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at Eastview Medical & Rehabilitation Center. He was 86 years old. He was born on July 3, 1924 in Deerbrook, a son of Anton and Agnes (Tlachac) Koss. He married Marian Walters on July 18, 1959 at St. John Catholic Church, Antigo. She survives.

Vern attended Deerbrook grade school and graduated from Antigo High School in 1942.

A second generation farmer, he and his wife owned and operated the family farm in Deerbrook until their son Tony joined them in 1989.

Mr. Koss served and held office on the boards of many farming organizations and served on the Neva town board.

Vern lived his life as we all should-happy and strong in faith. In a way where a day never became a burden and a call of those in need never went unanswered.

A steward of the church at St. Wencel he helped construct the church where he will be bid farewell.

Mr. Koss was a member of the Msgr. Conrad Saile Knights of Columbus Council 1002, Antigo.

Survivors including his wife are two daughters Jeanne Koss, Kenosha, Cathy (Keith) Michels, Bryant; two sons Tony Koss and special friend Cindy Kuhls, Deerbrook, Pete (Denice) Koss, Green Bay; three grandchildren Abby Michels, Morgan and Matthew Koss; two sisters Blanche Kafka, Antigo, Rosemary Filbrandt, Antigo; three brothers Stephen (Grace) Koss, Antigo, Stanley (Betty) Koss, Bryant, Anthony (Doris) Koss, Harvard, Illinois;

He is further survived by members of his wife's family Mel (Elaine) Walters, Don (Ann) Walters and Jane Walters all of Antigo.

Vern was preceded in death by three sisters Julie Koss, Mary (Joe) Novak, and Edna (John) Piela; three brothers-in-law, Phillip Kafka, Jerome Filbrandt and Marvin Walters.

A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Wencel Catholic Church with Rev. Michael E. Betley officiating. Burial will take place in St. Wencel Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be 3:30-8 p.m. on Friday at the Bradley Funeral Home and 9-10 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. A parish wake service will be held at 4 p.m. and the Knights of Columbus members will recite the rosary at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

He lived a simple life focused on his wife, children and grandchildren.

Services