Vernon Roy "Vern" Vigoren

Vernon Roy "Vern" Vigoren, 86, passed away peacefully at home on July 22, 2026.

Born at home on December 3, 1939, in Gully, Minnesota, to Ole and Ruth Vigoren, Vern grew up on the family farm as the third of nine children. In 1964, he moved with his young family to Rainier, Oregon, where he built the life and community connections that would define the next six decades. He worked at the R&W Paper Mill in Longview before founding Vigoren's Roofing, serving Columbia County and the surrounding area for many years. Through his work and as a longtime landlord, Vern became a familiar and respected member of the community.

Vern loved the Columbia River and enjoyed fishing for salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon. He was also an avid hunter of deer and elk. Rarely one to sit still, Vern was known for his strong work ethic, outgoing nature, generosity, determination, and the many friendships he built over a lifetime. Family and friends were always entertained by his hunting and fishing stories, told with the unmistakable Minnesota accent he never lost.

In 1992, Vern married Patti Ulrich, and together they shared more than 30 years of marriage. He will be deeply missed by Patti, his sons, stepsons, daughters-in-law; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters; and numerous extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Riverside Community Church in Rainier, Oregon, with a reception to follow at El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant.