Vernie Cecil Korte, 92, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Saturday, June 18, 2022 in Ottawa, IL at his home surrounded by his family. On July 31, 2022, it would have been the celebration of 68 wonderful years of marriage to Sally, the love of his life.

Vernie was born on December 28, 1929, in Rushville, IL. He was preceded in death by his father, George Augustus Korte; his mother, Sarah Susanne (Lawler) Korte; his brother, Carl Korte; and his sister, Carlene Detrick.

Vernie is survived by his wife, Sally Korte of Ottawa; his son, David (Karen) Korte of Sheridan; his two daughters, Lauranne (Mark) Thompson of St. Peter, Minnesota and Karen White of Brownsville, Tennessee; and seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he has touched throughout his life.

In 1954, Vernie graduated from Great Lakes Bible Institute in Zion, IL. Soon after graduating, Vernie and Sally started a church in Oak Lawn, IL. After physically building the church and becoming very involved in the construction trade, he later founded Korte Construction, a family owned and operated business, until his retirement.

Though Vernie did not continue pastoring, he was heavily involved in church ministry, and he served on the Board of Deacons, taught Sunday School, and much more. Vernie was passionate about serving the Lord and was always willing to help others in any way he could. Vernie loved to fish and spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. with a Memorial Service following at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 24, 2022 at Praise Center, 3040 E. 18th Rd., Ottawa, IL 61350, with Rev. Mark Thompson and Rev. Ray Mitchell officiating. A private family interment will be on Saturday, June 25 in Palm Cemetery in Rushville, Illinois.