Vernon Ted Neuhaus, 81, of Hendersonville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026. He was born on February 23, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to Vernon J. Neuhaus and Marjorie E. Neuhaus.

Vern lived a life marked by faith, purpose, generosity, and adventure. A devoted educator and coach, he made a lasting impact on countless students during his years at Wheaton Central High School and Wheaton Warrenville South High School. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or through everyday conversations, he encouraged others to pursue excellence, persevere through challenges, and live with integrity. His influence extended far beyond graduation, and many carried his lessons with them for a lifetime.

An adventurer at heart, Vern embraced challenges with enthusiasm. He completed eight marathons and skied two Birkebeiners, always eager to test his limits and experience the beauty of God's creation. He also loved to travel, delighting in discovering new places, meeting new people, and taking the road less traveled. As Robert Frost so memorably wrote, "I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." That spirit of curiosity and courage defined much of Vern's life.

More than any accomplishment, however, Vern desired for others to know Jesus Christ. Sharing the hope of the Gospel was central to who he was. He loved God wholeheartedly and loved people deeply. His kindness, intentional generosity, and welcoming spirit left an enduring impression on all who knew him.

Vern is preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Marjorie. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 57 years, Fran Neuhaus; his three adoring daughters, Deb (Scott) Anderson, Jennifer (Andrew) McCartney, and Cheryl DeFreest; his nine treasured grandchildren, Brittany (Chipper) Whittington, Luke (Lex) Anderson, Kayla Anderson, Ben McCartney, Jonathan McCartney, Anna McCartney, Kevin Davidson, Ryan Davidson, and Brendan Davidson; his great-grandbaby, Ryder Anderson; his brother, Art (Judy) Neuhaus; his sister, Barbara (John) Graham; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Please join the family in celebrating Vern’s life on Saturday, July 18th, 2026, at Sumner Funeral and Cremation Lakeside in Hendersonville, Tennessee. A visitation will be held from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 PM. Vern will be laid to rest at Beech Cemetery in Hendersonville, Tennessee, following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Neuhaus Family Christian Foundation, or to your local church.

Arrangements are entrusted to Sumner Funeral and Cremation Lakeside, 615-822-4442, www.sumnerfuneral.com