VERNON JOHN HARJU

Vernon John Harju, age 71 of Lowell, passed away Monday, October 16,
2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nestor and Irene Harju;
brothers, Earl Junttonen, Calvin Junttonen; sisters Violet Kuusisto and
Lois Rintala; brothers-in-law Bruce Smith, Wester Rintala;
sister-in-law, Maryann Junttonen. Vernon is survived by his wife of 50
years, Donna Harju; children, Derek (Dulce) Harju, Brittany (Tony)
Quint; sisters, Laurian (Ron) Osantowski, Neldine Smith; grandchildren,
Maxima, Malia Harju, Nicholas Quint; father-in-law and mother-in-law,
Donald and Elizabeth Charter; and many nieces and nephews. Vernon served
his country with unwavering commitment for 11 years in the US Navy as a
dedicated hospital corpsman. Following his military career, he continued
to make a significant impact on the lives of others during his 12 years
at Trinity Health St. Mary’s Hospital. Vernon’s passion extended beyond
his professional life, he found joy in the art of woodworking and the
meticulous art of refinishing furniture. He cherished spending time with
his grandchildren and cheering for the Red Wings, a team that he loved.
Vernon’s legacy of service, craftsmanship, and love for his favorite
hockey team will be cherished and remembered by all who had the
privilege of knowing him. Visitation will be held from 2-4pm on
Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Roth-Gerst Chapel, 305 N. Hudson, Lowell,
Michigan, 49331. Memorial contributions can be made to Michigan Veteran
Homes, https://www.michigan.gov/mvh/support/make-a-gift.