Floyd L. "Vern" Shinabarger, 79, Sturgis, passed away Saturday, October 18, 2014 at the Ft. Meade VA Medical Center following a lingering illness.

Vern Shinabarger was born May 26, 1935 at Bison, SD to Warren and Lena (Schwandt) Shinabager. He grew up in the Bison/ Prairie City area before he joined the service. After serving a term in both the Army and Navy, he made his home in the Sturgis area for most of his adult life. He was proud to remain a lifetime member of the DAV.

Vern was a man of few words but he absolutely loved the time he spent at family gatherings or having coffee at one of his many favorite spots and listening to conversations around him. As his nieces and nephews were growing up, they cherished the little games he would make up and play with them. He always had a small toy in a shirt pocket to surprise them with.

Vern is survived by one brother, Raymond (Diane) Shinabarger; one daughter; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Donald and Clarence (Buster) Shinabarger; and two sisters, Eleanor Lindholm and Gladys Baird Nelson.

Family and friends will gather at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, October 23, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel. Graveside services, with military honors will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, October 23, at Black Hills National Cemetery, with Pastor Henrique Fleming officiating.

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