Vernon Fred Zitzow

Vernon F. Zitzow, 85, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, died on Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at The Cottages of the Ecumen Community, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Vernon was born April 11, 1929, the son of William and Frieda (Thom) Zitzow in Vergas, Minnesota. He attended elementary school in Vergas and graduated from Perham High School. As a young man, Vernon enlisted in the United States Army and served from 1952-1954. After receiving an honorable discharge, Vernon was united in marriage to Elvie Nyland on October 1, 1955. They made their home in Detroit Lakes and Vernon started with Detroit Dairy as a salesman. He also built residential homes during this time. After about six years, he became a sales representative for Gerber Baby Food for ten years. Then, Vernon started Lakes Construction Company specializing in residential homes and remodeling. He retired in 1994. Vernon was a charter member of Grace Lutheran Church, lifetime member of the American Legion and VFW. He enjoyed gardening and woodworking. Vernon and Elvie wintered in Orange Beach, Alabama and enjoyed travel to various places in their retirement years. Vernon is survived by his wife, Elvie Zitzow of Detroit Lakes, MN; two sons, Keith (Paula) Zitzow of Rochert, MN; Kevin (Sheri) Zitzow of Dent, MN; two daughters, Sandra (Larry) Grahek of Stacy, MN; Sheila (Jason) Sayler of Urbandale, IA; grandchildren, Eric, Nicholas and Lindsey Zitzow, Joshua Goetz, Alyssa Sayler, Emily and Michayla Grahek, Landon, Logan and Lauren Sayler; three brothers, Willmar (Marie) Zitzow of Fargo, ND; Walter (Ethelyn) Zitzow of Fargo, ND; Elmer (Pat) Zitzow of Vergas, MN; one sister, Elsie Schulz of Oklahoma, numerous nieces and nephews. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Stacie Zitzow, three brothers, Erwin, Clifford & Alfred Zitzow, brother-in-law, Lloyd Schulz.