Verne Charles Eisele

Verne Eisele Jr., 89, passed away peacefully in his home on July 10th, 2021.

     Verne spent his early years in Fenimore, Wisconsin building his own grocery and variety store business. He also spent a few years in Phoenix, Arizona where he met his beloved wife Patti who he was married to for more than 50 years. They had many adventures together. Verne and his wife moved to Florence in 1975 and started The World of Variety on Main St. which they operated together until they sold it in the mid-eighties. They also bought and restored an animatronic Willy Wonka display, which they set up in Florence, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs. Verne loved seeing the joy it brought to people of all ages.

     Verne was well-known and active in the Florence Community and was named the 2009 Pioneer Day’s Distinguished Citizen. He had been a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Lion’s Club, Museum Board, and was a member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. He was even an extra in the 2017 Robert Redford movie, Our Souls at Night, which was partially filmed in Florence. Verne loved to travel and joined the Airstream Club in 1981. He and Patti enjoyed attending rallies together for 16 years during their retirement. He also spent some time in Sun City, Arizona, where he was active in the bicycling and walking clubs. Verne had quite the adventurous spirit and even had his pilot’s license when he was younger. He lived life to the fullest.

     Verne’s greatest joy in life was meeting new people. No one stayed a stranger for long, as he would stop and talk with everyone he met. He had a way of making people feel special and welcome. Verne possessed a quiet strength, a love of people, and a zest for life. He was much loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed. The smiles and joy that he brought to anyone fortunate enough to know him, will live in our hearts and memories forever.

     In his later years, Verne could be seen around town walking his much-loved little rescue dog, Spider, his faithful companion. Verne loved dogs and supported the work of the Humane Society where Spider was adopted from.

     Verne is survived by his two children: Tom & Geri, and his four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his seven siblings, five sisters and two brothers.

      On Tuesday July 20th, 2021at 1:00 p.m. a public memorial will be held for Verne at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Florence, Colorado which is located at 622 W. 2nd Street. Please come to honor and celebrate his life. All are welcome.

We ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Verne’s honor to the Humane Society of Fremont County located at 110 Rhodes Avenue Canon City, Colorado 81212.

Services entrusted to Holt Family Funeral Home.  Online condolences, www.holtfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

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