Vernon "Short" Chandler

A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2014 at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Memorials may be given to HCI Hospice Care Services in Osceola. Vernon was born to Charles and Olive (Marker) Chandler in their home in Lucas on August 16, 1931. When Short was 14 years old he quit school and headed West. He supported himself by working on the pipeline until he got as far as Wyoming. There he worked on a ranch. Short was drafted into the United States Army. He was stationed in Paris, France where he built bridges and airports with 'The Eight Ball Guys'. Short was promoted to Corporal three times during his military career. He was honorably discharged from the Army as a Corporal. After his service in the military, Short returned home to Iowa. He met his wife, Dorothy Nicholls, on a blind date at the Happy Times Ranch. They were married on August 31, 1956. Short and Dorothy were blessed with two children, Merna and Martin. Short's love for horses led them to owning their own horse business, Chandler's Quarter Horses. They worked hard together for 55 years, raising and training horses, going to horse sales and shows. Short was proud to raise such great breeds. His friendly personality helped him to become such a successful business owner. Short really enjoyed people and bringing a smile to your face with his jokes. Short and Dorothy also took time once a year to go on a special non-working vacation. They enjoyed traveling the country and seeing all the sights. Vernon 'Short' Chandler, 82, of Lucas passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at his home. Short is survived by his children: Merna Ansley of Lucas and Martin (Sheree) Chandler of Coal Valley, IL; 4 grandchildren: Holly (Eric) Carter, Travis Chandler, Kristin Chandler, and CJ Chandler; 3 great grandchildren: Isabella, Chloe and Abigail Carter; and 2 sisters: Vena Lessey of Colorado and Jesse (Boo) Larrington of Chariton. He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Olive (Marker) Chandler, his wife Dorothy (Nicholls) Chandler, and his sister Micky Konrad.