Adolph “Vern” LaVern Heller, 80, of Riverton, Wyoming, sadly passed away on the morning of February 3, 2026, at SageWest Hospital in Riverton.
Vern was born on August 1, 1945, in Torrington, Wyoming, to Adolph Marx Heller and Clara (Fisher) Heller. He was baptized into the Lutheran faith. In his later years, Vern courageously battled Alzheimer’s disease.
Vern was the youngest of twelve children—eight sisters and four brothers—and grew up surrounded by family. On February 23, 1965, he married the love of his life, Judy Lynn Sage. Their marriage of more than 60 years was a true partnership, and they were deeply devoted to one another.
Vern was a wonderful and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-papa. He worked tirelessly throughout his life, never shying away from hard work. He was a truck driver for many different industries, including logging and construction, and also worked as an instructor teaching truck and trailer driving to women, a role he especially enjoyed. In his younger years, he worked as a gas station attendant and at a sawmill. No matter the job, Vern always gave it his all.
Vern was a dedicated member of the Masons and was honored with his 50-year certification and pin in the fall of 2025 by Dubois Lodge AF & AM #53.
He enjoyed fishing, spending time in the mountains, woodworking, and being in nature. Vern valued his friendships, but above all else, he cherished and loved time with his family—especially his grandchildren.
Vern is survived by his wife, Judy Heller; daughter, Suzette (Kenneth) Erhart; son, Robert L. Heller; grandchildren, Colten (Shawna) Erhart, Amber Erhart-McCully, Shayna (Conrad) Heller-Worth, and Dara (Isaiah) Heller-Whitworth; great-grandchildren, Brayden Erhart, Brooklyn Erhart, Brianna Erhart, and Quinn McCully; sister, Della Wolfe; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Adolph and Clara Heller; and siblings, Hazel Heller-Hoekstra, Dorothy Heller-Peterson, Frieda Heller, Claretta Heller-Benesh, Blondina Heller, Lorenz Heller, Elsie Heller-Keeran, Alberta Heller-Everett, Harry Heller, and Leslie Heller.
A private family gathering will be held later this year.
Online condolences may be sent to www.TheDavisFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Crematory and Monuments of Riverton, Wyoming.