Vernon “Boot” James Hakala, 57, of Rhinelander, Wis., passed away on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024 after battling cancer. He was born Jan. 7, 1967 in Tomahawk, the son of Philip and Janice (Schweke) Hakala. He attended Prentice High School graduating in 1985. After graduating high school Vernon joined the U.S. Navy serving from 1985-1990. He spent two years stationed in Japan on the USS Blueridge (LCC-19) and two years in Brememerton, Wash., on the USS Sacremento. (AOE-1) After his honorable discharge he lived in Washington State before returning home to Wisconsin in 1994. Vernon married the love of his life Becky Lontcoski on June 13, 2020 on Somo Lake in Tomahawk.
Vernon was employed at Phillips Plastics for 19 years until 2016 when he moved to Rhinelander with his family where he was employed at Charter Next Generation until the time of his illness. Vernon enjoyed camping on Somo Lake, sports, bowling, trips to the casino and spending time with his family and friends.
Vernon is survived by his wife, Becky Hakala of Rhinelander, Wis.; his two daughters, Megan and Zoe Hakala of Phillips, Wis.; son, Dominic Hakala of Rhinelander, Wis.; and his dog Chewie. He is also survived by his brothers, Brian (Dani) Hakala of Tomahawk; Keith (Mary) Hakala of Tomahawk; sister, Lynn Hakala of Parker, Colo.; brother-in-law, David (Heather) Lontcoski of Phillips, Wis.; sister-in-law, Jody (Brandon) Kozak of Phillips; and mother-in-law, Linda (Pete) Linden of Phillips. Also survived by four nieces and eight nephews and his Nicks Hodag Lanes bowling family.
Vernon is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Lori (Kenny) Laaksonen, his grandparents, many aunts and uncles, and his father-in-law, Chuck (Diane) Lontcoski.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024 at Krueger-Nimsgern Funeral Home, Tomahawk from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and again, on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to time of service at 11 a.m. Services will be held at 11 a.m. with Pastor Dennis and Wendy Mannering officiating. Burial will take place at Somo Cemetery in Tripoli, Wis., with Military Honors. Following burial, there will be a celebration of life held at Nicks Hodag Lanes in Rhinelander.
Per Boot’s request please wear your favorite sports jersey or comfortable clothes.
Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.nimsgernfuneral.com.
