Vernie E. Hole

HOLE

Posted By: Jennie Kephart (email)
Date: 1/19/2026 at 20:39:38

Vernie E. Hole, born April 2, 1942, on the family farm in Wellman, Iowa, passed away at his daughter's home on January 19, 2026. He was the son of Earnie and Alma Lucile (Strum) Hole and was the youngest of five children.

Vernie spent his working years with King’s Block in Coralville, later becoming an over-the-road truck driver and eventually a rancher in Montana. No matter where life took him, Iowa always felt his presence through his music.

An avid fisherman and a gifted musician, Vernie’s true passion was bluegrass music. His love for it resonated throughout Iowa, where he could often be found at local bluegrass festivals, backyard jam sessions, or campgrounds playing his favorite instrument, the dobro. Vernie had the rare ability to play any song by ear and was proficient on the dobro, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and pedal steel guitar. To hear him play and sing was truly an experience—one that left lasting memories for all who listened. He enjoyed playing checkers, being outside, feeding the hummingbirds, taking care of his garden, giving away fruit from his fruit trees and making wine.

Vernie is survived by his children: Tim Hole (Cindy Scott), Kelly Hole, Lisa Newell-Martin (Leroy), Jennie Kephart; his sisters, Doris French, and Margaret Niles; and his beloved dog and loyal companion, Buddy.

Eight Grandchildren; Alex Hole, Ben Hole, Sandra Hole, Heather (Jeremy) Johnson, Cody (Taylor) Ruhnke, Kyle (Taylor) Ruhnke, Kaelen Kephart and Owen Rodgers.

Eight Great-Grandchildren; Jack Brown, Isabella Flanary, Maxwell Hunter, Bobby Hunter, Paisley Ruhnke, Charlotte Ruhnke, Ryder Breeden and Lauren Ruhnke

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnie and Lucile Hole; his brother, Donald Hole; his sister, Neva Cawthrone, nephew Brian Hole his brother-in-laws, Robert “Bob” Niles, Robert French, David Cawthorne, Dale Fabor, Robert Chaifos, and loyal companion Skipper.

Vernie will be remembered for his musical talent, his free spirit, and the joy he brought to others through music. His legacy of music will continue to live on.