Vernon "Chubber" Joseph Gimpel

Vernon Joseph “Chubber” Gimpel

March 6, 1933 – July 8, 2025

With great love and deep sorrow, we share the passing of Vernon Joseph “Chubber” Gimpel, who left this world peacefully on July 8, 2025, in his hometown of Duluth, Minnesota, at the age of 92.

Born on March 6, 1933, in Duluth to John and Mary Gimpel, Vernon lived a life filled with hard work, kindness, music, laughter, and generosity. He proudly served in the United States Navy and also earned degrees in both history and art—reflecting his deep curiosity about the world and his creative spirit.

For over 30 years, Vernon worked on the harbor tugboats with Great Lakes Towing, where he became a familiar and respected face on the waterfront. But it wasn’t just his work ethic that made an impression—Vernon had a gift for bringing joy to others. He sang for many years with the Duluth Harbormasters barbershop quartet, filling halls and hearts with harmony and humor.

Chubber, as he was lovingly known, had a knack for cooking and an endless collection of jokes that always got a laugh. He was the kind of man who would offer help without being asked—wise, warm, and always ready to lend a hand or share a story. His presence was a quiet comfort, his kindness unmatched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary; his sister, Cele Allen; and his brothers, Dick, Donald, and Bob.

Vernon is survived by his beloved sisters, Patricia Haagenson and Mary Alice Udovich, along with cherished family members Minty Anderson, and her children Aubrie, Steven, and Brecken. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors—especially his dear friend and neighbor David “Lucky”, whose companionship meant so much.

A celebration of Vernon’s life will be held at Lincoln Park in Duluth on July 27th at 5:00 p.m. Please come with memories, stories, and laughter to share.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Duluth Harbormasters or the Honor Guard, in honor of Chubber’s life and legacy.

He was one of the good ones—and we’ll carry his voice, his wisdom, and his spirit with us always, in the words of Chubby “…it is what it is”