Vernie W. Lowry, 93, of Washington, died Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, at the United Presbyterian Home in Washington. A funeral service will be held Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, at 1 p.m., at the United Presbyterian Church in Washington, with Pastor Erin Kaye officiating. Burial will follow at the Sharon Hill Cemetery in Kalona. The family will greet friends from 5 – 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, at Peterseim Funeral Home in Kalona. The Beatty Peterseim Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Vernie W. Lowry was born Jan. 22, 1930, in Washington County, Iowa, the son of Oscar V. and Bessie (Wiles) Lowry. He attended high school in Washington County and in 1949 he enlisted in the United States Army. He served three years during the Korean Conflict.
On Dec. 26, 1950, he was united in marriage to Betty Ann Gingerich by Reverend Grosheim in the United Presbyterian parsonage. After he finished his service to the Army the couple settled in Washington, where Vernie worked at the Creamery and Button Factory. They then moved to Brighton where Vernie purchased the Standard Gas Station, working and managing the station for several years.
He completed training at culinary school in Florida and began his career as a chef at the Captain’s Table, a historical landmark in Washington. Upon retirement, he worked at the Kalonial Townhouse as a part-time chef. He enjoyed gardening and refinishing furniture in his shop daily. Vernie regularly attended the United Presbyterian church and moved to the United Presbyterian Home when his health began to decline.
Survivors include his wife of 73 years: Betty of Washington; daughter: Sandra K. (Larry) Lowry Zeman of Culpeper, Virginia; grandson: Brandon L. (Anissa) Zeman of Alexandria, Virginia; and many nieces and nephews.
Preceding Vernie in death were his brothers: Boyd (Wilma) Lowry and Wesley (Florence) Lowry; and his sister: Dora (Victor) Tinnes.
