Vernon P. Schmale, 83, of Meservey, passed away Friday, August 4, 2023, at his home. Per his wishes, no services will be held.  The family will privately celebrate his life at a later date. Vernon Paul, son of Henry Schmale and Mae (Webb) Floy, was born on May 7, 1940, in Mason City.  Vern grew up in Meservey and graduated from Meservey High School in 1958.  After high school, Vern joined the Navy.  After his return home, Vern worked for Morris Feed and Supply and Fashion Farm. On July 24, 1960, Vern was united in marriage to Sharon Morris at the Methodist church in Meservey.  In 1964, Vern and Sharon bought the bowling alley in Belmond and ran it until the tornado hit in 1966.  Vern went back to work for Sharon's family, selling livestock feed.  Eventually, Vern went out on his own selling feed for over 30 years.  He also ran Tom Thumb Fertilizer in Meservey for a few years.  Vern opened Schmale Feed and Supply, Inc. in Meservey which was also a commodity office.  He worked there until recently. Vern found a love for Thoroughbred horses and horse racing.  Vern and Sharon spent many hours at horse tracks and traveled to different tracks throughout the United States.  Vern's horse recently won the race at Prairie Meadows in May 2023.  He enjoyed golfing with his friends and family in Belmond and watching MLB baseball. Family was most important to him.  He was always there to support his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in their activities over the years.  His family will take what he has taught them and will continue to apply it to their lives. Vern is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sharon (Morris) Schmale of Meservey; son Monty (Lori) Schmale of Meservey; daughter Stacey (Larry) Ubben of Sheffield; grandchildren Derek (Shantel) Schmale, Cara (Jon) Evans, Kelsey (Shaun) Bolton, and Riley (special friend, Cait Cohn) Ubben; great-grandchildren Wyatt Schmale, Hayden Evans, Leighton Bolton, Remy Bolton, and Hunter Bolton; brother Henry Lee Schmale; sister Lori Harrington, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents; Sharon's parents; two brothers, and one grandchild.