Memorial

Vernon “Red” Kelchner Jr., “Gramps”, 92, of Cedar Rapids, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Sunday, September 2, 2018, at home surrounded by his loving family. Funeral Service: 1:00 pm Friday, September 7, 2018 at Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel. A visitation will be held from 4-7 pm Thursday, September 6, 2018 at Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel. Burial: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery immediately following the service. 

Red was born January 2, 1926, the son of Vernon and Mamie (Caito) Kelchner, in Cedar Rapids, where he grew up. Red served in the United States Navy during WWII, where he was a 2nd Class Petty Officer. On February 12, 1948, he married Phyllis Jean Burger in Cedar Rapids. She passed away in 1998. Vernon worked at Link Belt Speeder, FMC for thirty-eight years. Throughout his time there, he touched many lives and even after retirement, was often told he was the best boss they ever had. He not only touched lives in business, but also in his personal life. There are many who consider him to be their second father, and gramps to everyone who has ever met him.

Red was a member of Holy Redeemer Church and the Eagles Club. 

Survivors include his son, David (Lisa) Kelchner; eighteen grandchildren, Joshua, Shannon, Tina (Keith), Quentin, Aleea, Alena, Gavin, Bailie, Tara (Mike), Noah, Madelyn, Nicki (Ryan), Alex, Caleb, Wayne, Sara (Brett), Ella, Calvin; two great grandchildren, Kaden and Jessie; and great-great grandchild, Evangeline. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Kelchner; son, Mark Kelchner; and parents. 

Memorial donations may be directed to the family in memory of Red.