Vern Fields' Obituary
With deep sorrow and love, we announce the passing of Vern Lee Fields, who departed this life on August 29, 2025, at the age of 83.
Vern was born on March 16, 1942, in Elmira, Missouri, to Verney and Mary Fields. From a young age, Vern displayed a remarkable curiosity and talent for understanding how things worked—especially when it came to planes, trains, and automobiles, which remained lifelong passions.
A gifted mechanic and hardworking professional, Vern’s career reflected his exceptional skillset and adventurous spirit. Over the years, he worked as a heavy equipment operator, diesel mechanic, and composite technician, contributing his expertise to a wide range of industries. He helped build the Alaskan Pipeline, served as shop foreman for West Texas Truck Center in Amarillo, TX, and later, after relocating with his family to Tucson, AZ, he traveled across surrounding states assisting in train derailment cleanups. In the later chapter of his career, Vern obtained certification as a composite technician and worked for a defense contractor, repairing Hunter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)—a role he took great pride in.
Beyond his work, Vern pursued many hobbies that reflected his hands-on nature and zest for life. He restored old cars, flew small-engine airplanes, and built and flew RC aircraft with the precision of a true craftsman. He could often be found tinkering in the garage working on one of his never ending projects.
He was known for his quick wit, an endless supply of old-school, hysterical one-liners, and a deep, boisterous chuckle that could fill a room and brighten the darkest day. It wasn’t just a sound; it was an experience, one that wrapped you in warmth and made everything feel a little lighter. Vern’s laugh was the kind that stuck with you—loud, genuine, and utterly unforgettable. To know Vern was to know humor, warmth, and an unwavering sense of loyalty to those he loved.
Vern was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Verney and Mary Fields; his wife of 27 years, Cathy Sue Fields; daughter, Terri Lynne Flores; grandson Cody Weatherman and granddaughter Amber Hilberling.
He is survived by his sister Katie (John) Cayton of Cameron, MO; his children: Michelle Killion of Joplin, MO; Michael (Stacy) Fields of Butler, MO; Shari Ellis of Amarillo, TX; Jason (Greg) McGowen of El Paso, TX; and Julie (Joe) Tsethlikai of Green Valley, AZ. Grandchildren: Jayden (Antonio)Tsethlikai-Reyes of San Diego, CA; Kyla Ellis of Amarillo, TX; Jennifer (Blake) Grisham of Branson, MO; Morgan (Seth) Box of Joplin, MO; Tanner Weatherman of Fulton, MO; Kayla Fields of Springfield, MO; Sarah (Jon) Abernathy of Joplin, MO; Adam Fields of Pryor, OK; Ariel (Will) Sinkula of Burlington, VT; Emily Killion of Joplin, MO; Gabby Flores of Joplin, MO; and Connor Killion of Fayetteville, AR and numerous great-grandchildren.
Vern lived a life rich in experience, love, and laughter. His memory will live on through the stories told, the meals shared, and the engines still humming in garages across the country. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Country Club of Green Valley.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Community Food Bank – Green Valley Branch, or to a charity of your choice, in honor of Vern’s generous heart and enduring spirit.
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