Vernon Paul Halverson passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at his home in Fort Myers, Florida. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who lived every day as a gift and leaves a legacy of optimism and strength of character for all who knew him.

Born in Lansing, Iowa, to Dorf and Viette Halverson, Vern lived his life with resilience and determination. Diagnosed with cancer as a young man and facing recurring health challenges throughout his life, he never complained and never felt sorry for himself. Once Vern made up his mind, there was little he could not accomplish.

Vern married Joyce Williams in 1964, and moved to Cedar Falls, Iowa, where they raised their two wonderful children. He spent 35 years in Cedar Falls, graduating from the University of Northern Iowa and building a distinguished career at Control-O-Fax, where he retired as President and CEO in 1999. A respected leader and trusted mentor, he was known for his integrity, wisdom, and generosity. During his years in Iowa, he gave back generously to the community through board service and volunteer leadership.

In 1991, Vern married the love of his life, Cindy Carfore. After his retirement, they moved to Fort Myers, Florida, where Vern amazingly never once set foot in the Gulf, yet impressively managed to read every Clive Cussler book ever written. He remained active in business, traveled, and cherished time with family and friends. Surprising all, he bonded deeply with a long-haired chihuahua named Mani, who faithfully accompanied him on neighborhood walks and trips to Ace Hardware. He was known for his booming laugh, baritone singing voice, love of the UNI Panthers and Green Bay Packers, enthusiasm for tennis and fine wine, and an enduring search for a good deal.

Above all, Vern was devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife, Cindy Carfore; his son, Bradley Halverson, and grandson, Kyle Oxford; his daughter and son-in-law, Nicole and Jon Peppetti, and granddaughter, Gigi Peppetti; his siblings, Thomas Halverson, Janice Brandsmeier, and Mary Nelson; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Robert Halverson and Ronald Halverson.

Most of all, his children will remember the father who taught them courage in the face of adversity, exhibited wisdom in times of uncertainty, and demonstrated that our lives are shaped not by the circumstances into which we are born, but by the attitude with which we embrace each day.

True to his storytelling spirit, Vern left this world on Groundhog Day, ensuring his favorite stories can be told again and again. His greatest wish was that those he loved live with joy, gratitude, and optimism, just as he did.

A celebration of life will be held in Fort Myers, Florida, on March 21, with a second celebration planned for Cedar Falls, Iowa, at a later date.