Vernon Edward Morgenstern, 89 of Russell died Saturday morning, May 24, 2014, at Deseret Heath Care in Kensington, Kansas.

Vernon was born June 12, 1924, in Barton County, Kansas, the son of Edward and Minnie (Boxberger) Morgenstern.  He grew up in the Galatia area and graduated from Russell High School in 1942.  He was drafted into the Army Air Corp and was honorably discharged in 1946.
Vernon was united in marriage to Mary Lou Keener on July 17, 1948.  This union was blessed with two sons, Michael and Todd.  They made their home in Russell.

Vernon had a long career in aviation and was a contract Pipeline Pilot for 53 years and flew for numerous oil and gas pipeline companies including Kaw and Jayhawk Pipeline.  In 2011 he was awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Vernon was a member of Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Russell Elks Club, St. John's Lutheran Church, Masonic Lodge, Consistory and Shrine, and the University of Kansas Williams Fund.  He enjoyed hunting, gardening and golf in his spare time.

Surviving family include his wife of 65 years, Mary Lou of Russell; two sons, Michael (Susan) of Lone Tree, Colorado and Todd (Kim) of Ellinwood, Kansas, three grandchildren, Jill Morgenstern, Hannah Morgenstern and Katie Morgenstern.

Cremation has been selected by the family and a private memorial service for Vernon will take place at a later date.  The register book will be available from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. on Friday, May 30, 2014, at the mortuary.  Memorials may be given to the Russell County EMS or the Russell City Fire Department in care of the mortuary.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.