Vernon F. Carlson, age 99 of Newaygo, passed away Thursday, December 20, 2012 at the Newaygo Medical Care Facility in Fremont. Vernon was born on September 10, 1913 in Newaygo to Frank and Lena (Platt) Carlson and later married Winifred A. VandeKeith on January 20, 1935 in Newaygo. Winifred preceded him in death on April 12, 2008. Vernon has been a lifelong resident of the Newaygo area and purchased his farm in 1944 which is still being farmed by the Carlson family today. Vern worked on the dairy farm all his life and for a short period of time, worked in the construction industry. Vernon enjoyed woodworking and together with his wife, Winifred had traveled to all 50 states. Vernon is survived by his sons, Charles (Wanda) Carlson of Henryville, Indiana; Michael (Nancy) Carlson of Coral, Michigan; his grandchildren, Shawn, Melanie, Brandon, Michelle, Terry, Clausine, Cully; 10 great grandchildren; his sister, Pat (Dick) Hathaway of Whitehall. Vernon was preceded in death by his sister, Eloise Norquist. Memorial services will be held in the spring of 2013 at the family farm following cremation. Burial will take place in Newaygo Cemetery. Friends may send condolence or share a memory with the Carlson family online at www.crandellfh.com