Vernon Jerome LaVia, 60, entrepreneur, birder, author, movie producer, and mentor, of Aurora, IL, was invited to Heaven on September 17, 2023, surrounded by the peace and love of his extensive circle of family and friends, after facing an extended illness with grace and inexhaustible optimism. Vernon was born July 15, 1963, son of Johanna and the late John T. LaVia, Jr., who preceded him in death. He graduated from Duke University in 1985, with a degree in Economics. Vernon married the love of his life, Linda Chapa LaVia, on July 25, 1992, in Chicago, IL.

A man of unwavering faith with a true servant spirit, Vernon joyfully served as Founder of Maternity Homes of Fox Valley and Carpenter's Place Aurora; President of Kiwanis Club of Aurora; President of Crime Stoppers of Aurora; Board Member of Illinois Audubon Society; Sci-Tech Hands-on Museum; Our Lady of Good Counsel Church; Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau; and the Conservation Foundation; and a Member of Kane County Audubon.

He is survived by his loving wife Linda, cherished mother Johanna A. LaVia; mentor and dear uncle Dennis (Danielle) LaVia, adoring daughters Veronica and Jackie LaVia; devoted siblings Wendy (Tom) Archer and Jay (Jennifer) LaVia; and beloved toy poodle Luna. They will all deeply miss this silly man who lived so much, though not so long.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023, 4:00 P.M.- 8:00 P.M. at DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 1801 S. Douglas Rd. Oswego, IL.

A funeral service will be Saturday, September 23, 2023, 10:00 A.M. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, 620 Fifth St, Aurora, IL, followed by private burial.

Arrangements entrusted to DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Easterseals Capital Region, 100 Deerfield Rd., Windsor, CT 06095, ATTN: W. Archer OR Kane County Audubon, 722 Richards St., Geneva, IL 60134.

In Loving Memory of Vernon Jerome LaVia

It's with Heavy Hearts and Boundless Gratitude, that we bid farewell to a beloved Husband, a passionate Father, a doting Son, a cherished Brother, a loyal Friend, an exceptional Teacher, and a true ambassador of life's joy. Vernon LaVia, the man who illuminated our lives with wisdom, love, kindness, and boundless enthusiasm, has journeyed onward to a higher realm, and a new adventure, graciously leaving behind a legacy that will forever shape our souls and guide our hearts.

Born on July 15, 1963, Vernon entered this world blessed with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a heart brimming with love and compassion to share. Those who were lucky enough to be in his life have been privileged to witness the extraordinary journey of a man who not only instilled wisdom, peace, and love but embodied it in every facet of his life. His lessons were not confined to writings, they were etched in the experiences we shared, the adventures we embarked upon, and the love we exchanged.

Vernon was an innovator, collaborator, and serial entrepreneur. He was equally successful in the corporate world, excelling in the insurance industry at a high level, and as a small businessman who formed over 30 corporations. His entrepreneurial endeavors began with the World Café coffee shop in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago, where he and Linda honed their business and community-building skills. Vernon and Linda also opened downtown Aurora's first martini and cigar bar, La Aurora Cigars and Spirits. His most recent business enterprise provided defibrillators (inspired by his father's death from a heart attack) to countless businesses and individuals in the Aurora area and throughout the country, leading to the prevention of hundreds of premature and unnecessary deaths. Vernon believed in the infinite potential of the City of Aurora and invested in real estate and businesses in the city through several buildings that he owned in the downtown area. Vernon truly believed in Aurora's growth potential as the second-largest city in Illinois.

Vernon's daughters often accused him of being overly dramatic. In 2021 he decided to parlay his flair for drama into a new adventure—he immersed himself in the production of a new film, Canyon of Death. He became the lead executive producer for the film and was involved in all aspects of the production. Vernon and Linda even appeared in several scenes as extras. The production of the film is complete, and release is anticipated in the next few months.

A true Renaissance spirit, Vernon was knowledgeable and interested in a wide range of fields. He had a thirst for reading. He reveled in the art of creating and exploring, whether it was through his hands-on tinkering and innovation or in the way he cultivated lasting memories with those around him or in his life. His wanderlust knew no bounds. He visited all 50 states and 70 countries during his travels. He was never afraid to go down the road less traveled, especially to see a bird. Vernon's heart belonged to the great outdoors, where he could immerse himself in the wonders of nature, and revel in God's astounding creations. During his cancer journey, he called one of his most effective treatments "Forest Bathing" and he always felt better after spending time in the woods.

Vernon was a dedicated conservationist who devoted much of his time and energy to the protection and improvement of the environment. He wrote a book entitled Make Earth Great Again that focused on the importance of biodiversity and getting back to nature. He also gave a TEDxTalk on the importance of humans interacting with nature and protecting our world's resources.

Birds, in their myriad colors, shapes, and melodies, held a special place in his heart; a reflection of his deep appreciation for the beauty in simplicity. He was an expert birder and shared his knowledge freely with any person he encountered during his frequent bird walks to Nelson Lake, his favorite local birding spot. He also was instrumental in reestablishing breeding Peregrine Falcons in downtown Aurora.

But Vernon's love extended far beyond the natural world; it encompassed the communities he cherished, any person who met him, and the people he held dear. As noted above, he was a founder, board member, or member of a wide variety of groups, each one a testament to his unwavering commitment to forging meaningful connections. He also served as a mentor to numerous individuals. Through his words and actions, he exemplified the true essence of community, fellowship, and the importance of lifting one another up. Vernon consistently put others before himself. "With Peace and Love," –Vernon's favorite phrase, encapsulated his approach to life, in every step he took. He lived by these words, spreading peace wherever he went and enveloping those he touched in a warm embrace of love and understanding. His generosity knew no bounds, and his kindness was a beacon of light for those in need that could never be dimmed.

As we say our final goodbyes to his earthly presence, we do so with heavy hearts but also with a profound sense of gratitude for the privilege of having shared our lives with Vernon LaVia. He will be profoundly missed. Vernon leaves behind cherished memories, enduring life lessons, and a legacy of love that will continue to guide us on our own journeys and new adventures.

In the tapestry of life, Vernon's thread was vibrant and unforgettable. May his spirit soar with the birds he adored, may his creations continue to inspire, and may his love, wisdom, and peace live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in eternal peace, dear Vernon, with all our love.

Vernon Jerome LaVia July 15, 1963 – September 17, 2023. "With Peace and Love"