Vernon Leon Souder

Vernon Leon Souder, 72, of Dawn, Mo., formerly of Schell City, Mo., died at his residence in Dawn, Mo., on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2004. He was born on Jan. 13, 1932, the son of Elijah Sabin and Ruth Lucille (Poyner) Souder.

Mr. Souder was in the U.S. Navy and served for 20 years, he was a Chief Operations Specialist.

Survivors include one daughter, Nikki Peterson, Independence, Mo.; and one sister, Wanda Lee Queen, Kansas City, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Gene Souder.

Graveside services will be at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, Mo., on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 10 a.m. Friends may call after 12 p.m., until 9 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 18.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Mo.