Vernon L. Sallaska, 82, of Shawnee, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, in Oklahoma City, surrounded by his family, after bravely navigating years of health challenges. Vernon was a loving husband, father and Papa whose warmth, humor and steadfast presence will be forever missed.

Born on March 2, 1943, in Fairview, Oklahoma, Vernon was the beloved son of Charley and Minnie (Nickel) Sallaska. He graduated from Fairview High School and proudly served his country in the Air National Guard of Oklahoma and Air Force Reserves.

Vernon married Linda Lowrey on May 27, 1967, in Oklahoma City, and they had two daughters, Shana and Megan. Together they enjoyed bowling, country and western dancing, and raising and showing chickens through their involvement with the Oklahoma State Poultry Federation.

As a quotations manager at United Equipment Company in Edmond for more than 40 years, Vernon took pride in the bucket trucks his customers relied on to provide critical infrastructure services.

Vernon's faith was an integral part of his life, nurtured through his upbringing in the Mennonite Brethren church. He delighted in sharing his love of Mennonite traditions and foods, creating bonds through hospitality and heritage. Outside of work and family, Vernon found joy in gardening, tinkering, and cheering on his favorite teams, the OU Sooners and Los Angeles Dodgers. An avid sports enthusiast, he was especially excited for the Sooners softball team's pursuit of a fifth consecutive national championship this year. He also loved classic country music, often filling his home and hospital rooms with the comforting melodies.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, one sister, and son-in-law Russell Cobb. He is survived by his wife of nearly 58 years, Linda Sallaska; daughter and son-in-law, Shana and Jim Clark; daughter, Megan Cobb, and her partner, Chris McAlister; granddaughter, Aubrey Cobb; bonus grandsons, Gavin Cobb, R.C. Cobb, Ronnie and Megan Clark, James Clark, William Clark, and Collin McAlister; and many other family and friends.

A graveside service honoring Vernon's life will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Shawnee.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Diabetes Association in Vernon's memory.