Vernon E. Hellyer, 81, of Crystal Lake, CEO of Fairview Cartage

Vernon E. Hellyer, 81, of Crystal Lake, died Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013, at home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born March 14, 1931, in Chicago, to the late Margaret and Frank Hellyer. On Jan. 14, 1956, he married Nancy Tardi in Bellwood.

A United States Army veteran, he served in the Korean War.

Vern was the CEO of Fairview Cartage and other businesses in Crystal Lake.

Vern was an active member of the Family Motor Coach Assoc., and traveled across the United States, including Alaska.  For 30 years, Vern and Nancy resided in Fort Myers, Fla., during the winter months. 

While he was very proud of his businesses, Vern’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy; children, Joseph (Diane) Hellyer of Woodstock, Vern (Pattie) Hellyer of McHenry, and Mary Hellyer-Fleischer of Crystal Lake; six grandchildren, Christopher Hellyer of Woodstock, Tiffany (Jimmy) Ryan of Woodstock, Jennifer (John) Fillicaro of McHenry, Natalie (Adam) Pashley of Lakemoor, Alex Fleischer of Woodstock, and Max Fleischer of Crystal Lake; six great-grandchildren, Ava, Connor, Alexis, Hailey, Anthony, and Zachary; and by his sister, Marge (Frank) Noble of Wisconsin.

Heaven may have gained its latest angel, but he will be missed dearly here on earth.

Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom his love commits me here; Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.

The memorial visitation will be Friday, Jan. 18, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Route 176, Crystal Lake, where there will be a memorial service at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Vern’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org, 800-227-2345, or 225 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1210, Chicago, IL 60601.