Vernon E. Wolff

Vernon E. Wolff, 77, Audubon, MN, passed away August 11, 2026, in his home with his family.

Vernon was born on December 29, 1948, in Valley City, ND, the youngest of four children to Harvey and Caroline (Buck) Wolff. He grew up in rural Wimbledon, ND, and graduated high school in 1966. During his youth he was active in student government, music, and 4-H. He won numerous awards with Boys State, 4-H National Club Congress, State and National Speech Awards, and Valedictorian. His education continued at Valley City State College, where he earned a BS in Mathematics and Chemistry.

While at college, Vern met the love of his life, Esther R. Job, through marching band. They were married on June 7, 1969, and after summer school at VCSC, they moved to Gackle, ND. After student teaching in Kulm, ND, Vern taught junior and senior high school mathematics and chemistry for Gackle Public Schools.

In 1971, Vernon accepted a position in New Rockford, ND, teaching mathematics and chemistry. In 1972, he was awarded a Science Foundation Scholarship to attend Stanford University during summer sessions and eventually earned a Master of Arts in teaching mathematics in 1975, where he had the privilege to study Mathematical Heuristics with Dr. George Polya. Through the years of teaching, the Wolff’s established many lifelong friendships with former students and community members.

Vernon moved his family to Stillwater, MN, in 1977, to continue his education. After completing coursework for a Doctorate of Philosophy in Mathematics Education at the University of Minnesota in 1979, he accepted a position at Jamestown College in ND. After completing his research and dissertation in 1985, he received his PhD. Dr. Vernon E. Wolff completed a 42-year career of teaching Mathematics and Math Education at Moorhead State University and retired in 2011.

The union of Vern and Esther was blessed with two children, Louise D. in 1976 and David S. in 1979. Together they enjoyed numerous trips throughout the United States, family reunions, and time at the lake.

Vernon had a strong faith and a personal relationship with Jesus. Through the years he cheerfully served on church boards, in Sunday School, youth groups, and church music. He served as organist and/or pianist for over 50 years, not only playing for Sunday morning services, but special meetings, weddings and funerals. He also enjoyed many hobbies, which included, photography, crocheting, woodworking, cooking/baking, antiquing, and genealogy. Vernon especially treasured spending time with friends and family and learning about family history.

Please join his wife, Esther, and family celebrating his life; daughter Louise Wolff, Lake Park, MN; son, David (Melissa) Wolff, Dilworth, MN; grandchildren, Isaiah Chalmers, Minneapolis, MN, Ogimaa Chalmers, Edina, MN, Elliot Wolff and Chloe Wolff, Dilworth, MN; sisters, Marlene Fritch, Valley City, ND and Elaine (Charles) Smith, Lansdale, PA; brother, Leonard Wolff, O’Fallon, MO; and many nieces and nephews. Vern is preceded in death by his parents.

Vern’s funeral service will be livestreamed here on his obituary page.

Visitation for Vern will be held Monday, August 17, from 5PM - 7PM with a 6:30PM Prayer Service at Lake Eunice Evangelical Free Church, Detroit Lakes, MN. His funeral service will be Tuesday, August 18 at 11AM at church, with a time of lunch and fellowship to follow. Vern will be laid to rest in Prairie View Cemetery in Wimbledon, ND