VERNON MEYER

Don was a pillar of strength and a beacon of love for our family. He was married for 67 years to the love of his life, Edith “Jane” Meyer. Together, they raised four children, Martin Meyer, Douglas (Caryn) Meyer, Kelly (Mark) Zaher and Stacey Meyer (Ramon Merrill), who will carry on his loving spirit. Grandfather to Teal Digranes, Courtney Zaher, Heather Meyer, and Kelsey Meyer, whom he loved spending time with and cheering on their endeavors. He was the loved brother of Gary “Dale” (Carol) Meyer and leaves behind many extended family members and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Edith “Jane” Meyer, and his parents William “Vernon” and Gladys Meyer.

Don grew up in Mingo Junction, OH and attended Mingo High School until his senior year, when his family moved to Dayton, OH, where he graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1950 as an accomplished athlete and football player. After high school Don began his lifetime of service to our country, entering the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge from the Coast Guard, Don graduated from Michigan State University. He entered the FBN (Federal Bureau of Narcotics), precursor to the DEA (Drug Enforcement

Administration) after graduation and enjoyed a long and distinguished career. Don held many positions of increasing responsibility continuing to serve in top leadership roles until his retirement in 1983. After retirement, Don went back to school and earned his master’s in criminology. While with DEA, the family moved from Chicago, to New Jersey, to Maryland, to Kansas, back to Chicago and then on to Miami during the height of the drug war. Don and Jane eventually retired to Heritage Pines in Hudson, FL, where they lived life to the fullest.

He had a passion for sports, doted on the love of his life, and believed in cherishing every moment spent with loved ones. Don’s unwavering spirit will forever be remembered.

The family wants to thank the staff at Sunrise Naperville North for their wonderful care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – Illinois Chapter, 2200 Cabot Drive, Suite 460, Lisle, IL 60532, 1-847-933-2413, https://www.alz.org/ illinois/donate, in honor of Don’s loving wife, Jane.

Memorial Services are being planned for a future date.

Future inurnment: Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL.

Arrangements by Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Naperville, IL.

For more information, please visit www.friedrich-jones.com or call (630) 355-0213.