Vern Joseph Tabish

Vern Joseph Tabish was born in Butte, Montana, on January 14, 1935, to Daisy and John Tabish. Vern passed away from natural causes on August 26, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him deeply.

Vern, a Montana cowboy, spent his youth in Butte and moved to Salt Lake City at age 10. He moved back to Montana to attend Christian Brothers Catholic High School before spending the next few years working as a ranch hand. While he loved the solitude of living in the mountains, which offered him unique challenges and insights, he chose to return to Salt Lake City to propose to his childhood sweetheart.

Vern’s proudest accomplishment and greatest joy was marrying the love of his life, Yvonne (Bonnie) Kaleel. They celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary on June 1, 2026, and despite struggling with dementia toward the end, they remained together, connected, loving, and one another’s best friend.

As Utah's last great Terrazzo man, Vern installed beautiful terrazzo flooring throughout the State. In addition to his Terrazzo business, he and Bonnie also owned and operated the Granite Club for 30 years before retiring. The Granite Club was a staple for many family celebrations and steady customers who, throughout the years, enjoyed homemade meals, holiday parties, and golf tournaments.

Vern was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He was an avid reader and an amazing cook, especially Lebanese food. He loved throwing parties, entertaining family and friends, playing golf, and feeding his birds. He was a devoted Catholic and a founder of St. Jude’s Maronite Catholic Church. His Lebanese heritage remained important to him throughout his life. Vern and Bonnie were devoted patrons of the Carmelite Monastery, providing the Nuns with loving support and service for more than 40 years.

Vern is survived by his wife, Bonnie Tabish, children, Joe Tabish (Cristina Tabish), Jeff Tabish, Jamie Tabish (Sim Gill), and Jim Tabish (Deanna Woolston). He left behind 14 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, siblings, and many dear friends and extended family.

His eldest son, John Tabish preceded him in death, as did his mother, Daisy, whom he adored and admired.

The family would like to acknowledge Vern's caregivers and hospice care team for their compassion, dedication, and support.

A private Mass for Vern will be held at St. Jude’s Maronite Catholic Church, officiated by Monsignor Jibran, a longtime family friend.

REST IN PEACE