Dr. Vernon Dale Damsteegt

 Dr. Vernon Dale Damsteegt, 87, went home to be with the Lord surrounded by his family on September 12, 2024 in Frederick, Maryland. Vern was born on October 19,1936 in Wisconsin to Cornelius and Della Damsteegt and resided in Frederick from 1962 until the time of his passing. Growing up on a small Dutch family dairy farm, Vern had a love for animals and nature. He and his siblings attended a one-room school-house that led him to pursue his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Central College in Iowa. At Central College, he excelled in track, even setting records. His love of learning led him to Washington State University where he received his PhD.  

Following his post-doctoral fellowship with USAMRIID, he accepted a position with the USDA at Fort Detrick. He spent 51 years serving his country as a Plant Pathologist. According to a colleague, Vern predicted 4 of the 5 major plant viruses that impacted domestic crops. His research was published in numerous papers during his time at the USDA with his last paper published 2 years ago. In addition to working for the USDA, Vern was known as “Dr. D” to his Biology students in his 42+ years as an adjunct professor at Montgomery and Frederick Community Colleges, and even, for a season, could be found dog-grooming or cleaning his church. Although Vern achieved many accolades during his life, he shared that the most important decision that he made was to accept Christ as His Savior. 

While attending Washington State University, he met his late wife of 45 years, Marianne. Vern was very active in church and the community throughout his life. In the early years, he served as youth leader at Calvary Methodist Church. In 1977, he and his family started attending Fredericktowne Baptist Church, where he served in many capacities over the next 40+ years and most recently served as the head of the Trustee Board. 

Vern enjoyed being active throughout his life by playing for the church softball league and singing in the choir. He enjoyed bowling, tennis, mountain climbing, watching sports and mini golf. He coordinated community activities for Clover Hill which included being the Easter Bunny and Santa. He lived out his Christian faith each day and opened his home and provided for those in need. He loved spending time with his family and was a dedicated fan at many of his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. His love of Christ was evident in his love for Christmas, where his home was known for magnificent light displays.  

In 2015, Vern married Shirley and enjoyed her companionship. During his career he traveled the globe for work, but, for Shirley, he traveled to Southeast Asia for fun. Special memories of his travels include a safari in Indonesia, a walk through the King’s home in Cambodia, and exploration of the Ho Chi Minh tunnel. 

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Sisante Damsteegt, daughters: Sherry Bueso (Miguel), Deborah Burrell (Jason), and Xena Pagcaliwangan; grandchildren: Julia, Cody Hamrick (Courtney), and Angela Bueso; and brothers: Reverend Gordon Damsteegt (Elaine) of New York, and Dr. Don Damsteegt (Marsha Barta) of Iowa. 

He is predeceased by his parents, Cornelius and Della Damsteegt of Wisconsin; wife, Marianne of Washington; and his sister, Edna Kroon and brother-in-law Arnie Kroon of Illinois. 

A celebration of Vern’s life will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Fredericktowne Baptist Church, 8645 Biggs Ford Road, Walkersville, Maryland 21793. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:30am, Celebration of Life service at 12:00pm, Interment at 2:00pm at Resthaven Cemetery followed by a reception for friends and family from 2:30-4:30pm at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fredericktowne Baptist Church at www.fbcfamily.org/give or to New Life Christian School at www.newlifecs.org.  

Vern was known for his heart to serve, dedicated work ethic, generosity, gentleness, and humility. He left a legacy of love and will be greatly missed.