Vernon Ast

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Vernon Gerhart Ast, 83, of Verona, MO, passed away on August 3, 2026, in Springfield, MO. Born on March 16, 1943, in Cheney, KS, son of the late Francis John Ast and Margaret Gertrude (Hermes) Ast. Vernon was a beloved figure in his family and in his community.

Vernon graduated from high school in Garden Plain, KS, in 1961 and attended Pittsburg State University for a year. His professional life was marked by significant contributions, first at Ritchie Brothers in Wichita, and subsequently at Main Street Feed in Verona, MO, where he devoted over thirty years.

A proud veteran, Vernon served in the Army Reserves, embracing the discipline and camaraderie that came with military life. He was a devout member of the Sacred Heart Church in Verona, MO.

In his younger years, Vernon was a proud member of the Wichita Ski Club, traveling to Europe to ski the majestic Swiss Alps and spending countless weekends carving through the slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. He was also an avid water skier who found great joy in teaching his younger siblings the sport he loved. A lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan, Vernon rarely missed a game and cherished mornings spent over coffee at his brother Dave’s barn, sharing stories and lively conversations about the Chiefs with his longtime friends.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Margaret (Hermes) Ast; and two brothers, Stan and Mike.

He is survived by his brothers, David Ast of Monett, MO, Melvin (Gwen) Ast of Wellington, KS, Ron Ast of Kingman, KS, Glenn (Sarah) Ast of Avon, CO; sisters, Judy Mertes of Maize, KS, Linda (Mike) McFerrin of Fort Collins, CO; and twenty-six nieces and nephews. His family and friends will forever remember his warm spirit and generous heart.

To honor Vernon's life, two services are scheduled. A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until noon on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Buchanan Funeral Home in Monett, MO. A memorial Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Rose Catholic Church in Mt. Vernon, KS, on Thursday, August 20th at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery, with a Rosary beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Monett High School Ag Dept or to St. Rose Catholic Church Capital Fund, honoring Vernon's lifelong passion for agriculture and his faith. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.