Verne H. Lausen

VERNE H. LAUSEN, 94, died Friday, April 12, 2024, in Fort Wayne. Born in Bennett, IA, he was a son of the late Luella Kintzel and Henry H. Lausen. Verne served in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers following the Korean War and received a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Iowa. He married Doris M. Wearley of Woodburn IN, on July 20, 1958. The adventurous couple traveled widely, often with family or friends, and spent winter months in Maui HI, or Longboat Key, FL. In 1992, Verne retired from a 35-year career with Phelps Dodge Magnet Wire Company as Vice President of Engineering and Maintenance. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge and exceptionally quick wit, Verne was a beloved father, grandfather, and uncle. In recent years, Verne enjoyed twice-weekly family Zooms and the companionship of his dear friend and neighbor, Joyce Wilkinson. Surviving are his daughters, Marcia (Tim Wilson) Lausen of Chicago IL, Carrie (Miguel Figueras) Lausen of Glenview IL, and Angela (Richard) Woenkhaus of Fort Wayne; grandsons, Brandon (Olivia Gerardot) Woenkhaus, and Trevor (Destany Manns) Woenkhaus; granddaughter, Eleanor Figueras; and sister, Vilda Sutherlin of Iowa City IA. Verne was preceded in death by his wife, Doris (Wearley) Lausen, and sister Arleen Deacon. Service is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Messiah Lutheran Church, 7211 Stellhorn Rd., with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April, 19, 2024 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home - Maplewood Park, 4017 Maplecrest Road Fort Wayne, In 46815. Burial in I.O.O.F. Cemetery, New Haven, Indiana. Memorials may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church.