Vernon John Bach

John Vernon Bach, aka "Vern", aka "The Big Guy", passed away in the late hours of Monday, May 25th, 2020, at age 87. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Shirley Ann Bach; granddaughter, Samantha; sister, Barb, and brother, Bill. Born November 3, 1932, in Red Wing, MN to William and Dagny Bach, Vern was a lifelong resident of Minnesota save for his service in the U.S. Navy. Upon leaving the Navy, Vern returned to Minnesota where he married the love of his life, Shirley. Vern and Shirley raised their 4 children in Richfield, MN. Vern made a lifelong career in the Water Well Supply Industry, starting his own company along the way. Upon retiring, he spent time with his friends and family, golfing, doing puzzles, volunteering at [hospital], watching the Golden Gophers, reading, traveling with Shirley, and attending the games of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. An avid sports fan, Vern boxed while in the Navy and was an avid golfer, even creating his own "Vern Bach Scoring Method," which will be used for generations of to come--though certainly not PGA sanctioned. Renowned for his warmth, generosity, and humor, Vern was never shy of friends and enjoyed a life full of camaraderie and compassion. He is survived by children, Laura (John) Coffield, Fred (Kathy) Bach, Jim (Jennifer Shinn) Bach, and Beth (Mike) Kielty; grandchildren, Missy, Katie, Nick, Alex, Nathan, Heidi, Justin, Adam, Max, and Mason; great-grandchild, Grace; and sister-in-law, Audrey Bach. Vern will be laid to rest alongside his wife in a plot at Fort Snelling.

A private cemetery service will be held June 3, 2020, at 10:30am. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, service will be limited to immediate family only.