Vernon James Weaver, age 70, of Naytahwaush, MN, died Friday, October 9, 2015, at Sanford Health, Fargo, ND.

Vernon "Bugs" James Weaver was born April, 25, 1945, to William and Margaret (Wadenah) Weaver at home by Snyder Lake. Growing up, he attended school in Naytahwaush and Mahnomen, MN. As a young man, Vernon entered the work force as a logger and trucker. On June 20, 1968, Vernon was united in marriage to Tonya Bellanger in Hennepin County. The couple made their home in Minneapolis, where he also played guitar in a band. They moved to Naytahwaush to raise their family. Vernon worked in food distribution for many years until getting a job for WE Housing. Vernon retired in 2009 due to his declining health.

Vernon was an avid outdoorsman and taught his kids to love and respect the outdoors as well. He loved hunting, fishing, leeching and was known to be one of the best ricers around. Even though Vernon liked to tease and get family riled up, especially his wife, he was easy going and truly had a big heart. He loved his family and always looked out for the elders in the community. Vernon also enjoyed Bingo, playing cards, eating fried chicken, especially KFC and attending his kids' sporting events and in the day, playing softball himself.

Vernon is survived by Toni, his wife of 47 years, his sons, Stacey (Rachelle) of Waubun and Shady of Naytahwaush; his daughters, Shelly (Tyson) Weaver and Sherry (Andrew) Weaver both of Naytahwaush; 17 grandchildren; his sister, Sharon (James) Brandon of Mahnomen and his sister-in-law, Meredy (Isaac) Littlewolf of Naytahwaush. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, William and Margaret; two sons, Jay and Shawn; two sisters, Rudella and Thelma and 3 brothers: Lyman, Robert and Wallace.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, October 14, 2015, at the Vernon and Toni Weaver Residence in Naytahwaush. Visitation was at 5:00 pm on Tuesday with a prayer service at 7 pm all at the house and visitation continued until the funeral service.