Honoring Dr. Rudy Vernie: Memorial Bench Fund

The world became a little less brilliant last December when Dr. Rudy Vernie passed on. If you grew up in Kittitas County between the 60's and 90's, your family likely had the good fortune to be cared for by him. You might even have a funny story you could tell about him and his wit, kindness, compassion, intelligence, and commitment to providing care to children and families in the area. We were truly lucky to have been the recipients of his care for nearly 40 years.

Personally, he lived a very rich and diverse life including military service, athletics, art, music, and travel.

During the last few years that Dr. Vernie lived in Ellensburg, he would spend his lunch break walking the river trail in Irene Rinehart Park. In honor of the lasting impact that Dr. Vernie has had on Ellensburg and the surrounding communities, a memorial bench will be commissioned, with plans to place it along the river trail where he spent so much time.

If you would like to contribute, please do so and know that Jimi Vernie and the rest of the Vernie family sincerely appreciate your kindness and generosity.