Joseph Vernier

Joseph F. Vernier, 60, of St. Peters, Mo., formerly of Cape Girardeau, and Belleville, Ill., was born Feb. 27, 1946, in Belleville. He died Monday, July 31, 2006, at his home.

Mr. Vernier was a retired consultant. He was also retired from Ryerson Steel Co. in St. Louis.

He was a member of Sts. Joachim and Ann Catholic Church, St. Peters, and a member of the Men's Club. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus in Cape Girardeau. Joe was an avid fisherman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph A. and Frances Buechler Vernier.

Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Helen R. Ruethling Vernier, whom he married Feb. 7, 1969; three daughters, Danielle (Mike) Goodman of Lebanon, Ill., Nicole (Chris) Gelven of St. Peters, Katie Cook of Cottleville, Mo.; five grandchildren, Steven, Ellie, and Marie Cook, Caleb and Cody Gelven; and two stepgrandchildren, Kelly and Jared Goodman.

Memorials may be made to Quincy University, Attn: University Advancement, 1800 College Avenue, Quincy, Ill., 62301.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville. A prayer service will be held at 4.

Funeral procession will leave at 9:40 a.m. Friday from the funeral home for 10 a.m. Mass of Christian burial at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, with the Rev. Oscar Lukefahr officiating. Burial will be in Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville.