Obituary of Vernon John Pote

Vernon “Vern” John Pote, 66, of Dowagiac, passed away at home on Sunday, September 20, 2020, with his family by his side. Vern was born on August 16, 1954, to the late Lou Pote and Mary Dickinson in Chicago, Illinois. Vern was raised by his mother and step-father, Ray and Mary Acree, in California. During his high school years, he moved back to Chicago and later joined the United States Army. After being medically discharged from the Army Vern had two daughters. Later he and his girlfriend, Cyndi Benson, moved to Michigan where they made their home. Vern and Cyndi remained together for the next 31 years. He was a family man through and through and was happiest when he was with his and Cyndi’s families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lou Pote, and Mary and Ray Acree and his siblings, Bonnie Groleau and Pat Slocum. Vern is survived by his daughters, Sabrina Pote of Ontario, California and Katrina (Paul) Vazquez of Riverside, California; girlfriend of 31 years, Cyndi Benson of Dowagiac; grandchildren, Amber, Josie, and Dante; siblings, Roger Pote of Chicago, Marilyn (John) Console of Perris, California, Raymond (Rhonda) Acree of Hemet, California, Mryna (Paul) Shafer of Phelan, California, and Ron (Angela) Acree of Bonney Lake, Washington; and many extended family members and close friends. In keeping with Vern’s wishes, he has been cremated and no public services will be held.