Donald Arthur Fern, age 94, died suddenly on January 19, 2021.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday, January 27 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with Rev. Marvin Enneking officating.
Don was born October 1, 1926 in Melrose, Minnesota to parents Joseph J. and Katherine (Zenz) Fern. He graduated from Melrose High School in1944. He enlisted in the Navy August 4, 1944 and served as a radioman on the USS BOSTON CA 69. Don participated in the first bombardment of the main islands of Japan and was honorably discharged from the Navy on June 8, 1946. He was employed at the Veterans Administration, Fort Snelling in December 1946. Retired in October 1981 after 31 years of service. He enlisted in the 103rd Infantry Div. Army Reserve Band three years prior to the Korean outbreak. Don was never called to active duty as a reservist and received an Honorable discharge.
Don married Ruby C. Pierson on February 22, 1955. He was very active in several sporting groups. Don was a Certified Minnesota Firearms Safety Instructor since 1985. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Melrose Post 101, lifetime member of Monticello Rod & Gun Club, and an Honorary Member of the Delano Sportsmen’s Club.
Survivors include many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; spouse, Ruby; brothers, Robert, Vernon, Richard; and sisters, Irene Verbeke, Alyce Maahs and Rosalia Smith.
Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services, Melrose.
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