Maine's Notable Game Warden
Retired Bill Vernon was honored in his hometown of Vanceboro.
By: Paige Christensen
Bill Vernon was born on December 17, 1934, and spent his formative years in Vanceboro, Maine. Growing up, he attended school in the area and developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors, enjoying baseball, hunting, and fishing with his uncles in the surrounding rivers and forests.
After many years working on the local railroad, Bill was approached by Mickey Novel to step into the role of deputy game warden. In 1958, Bill became the game warden in Vanceboro.
From 1959 to 1961, he was stationed in Dackawom. He later served in Fort Kent and Ashland from 1965 to 1986, where he worked as an inspector before being promoted to lieutenant. His career continued to flourish, leading him to Bangor. From 1990 to 1994, he served as a colonel in Augusta.
Throughout his distinguished career with the Warden Service, Bill excelled in every role, with a commitment to justice and a heartfelt dedication to his work.
A recent celebration was held in his honor at the Vanceboro Community Center, where speaker Danny Beers humorously remarked, "You can't go up from there," eliciting a chuckle from the audience.
This past April, Bill was recognized by the State of Maine with the title of "Legendary Game Warden." He was presented with a new plaque and celebrated once again in his hometown on August 1, 2026.
In a touching moment following Danny Beers' speech, Bill's wife, Sue Vernon, spoke about her husband, who, at 91 years old, often reminisces about Vanceboro. She shared his enduring love for both his career and his hometown, saying, "Not only was he outstanding in his career, but he is a great husband, father, stepfather, and retired warden who loved what he did."
